Thursday, December 2, 2021

And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”

 Luke 1

And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” Luke 1:46-55

This morning, I continue with my listening/reading of a Christmas/Advent devotional from John Piper. Today's entry focuses on Mary and Elizabeth and how God uses their "humble estate" to be the mothers of Jesus and John the Baptist. As I continue to prepare for Christmas, I reflect on how God has humbled me to become one of His elect as I fully recognize that my faith is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8). I have struggled much with arrogance over the course of my life and God has indeed "scattered" me "in the thoughts of [my] heart."  He has also filled me with "good things" and helped me see His mercies as new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). Thank You Jesus for helping me see how I need a Savior and for being my Savior.

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are indeed an amazing God and given me the gift of faith - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of this and the many blessings You pour out for me.  My sin of arrogance continues as well as other sins.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.