Is your faith like Mary’s or Zechariah’s? Do you see with faith or do you put your faith in what you see?

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

When we say, “I don’t see why or how…” we are making our opinion the final say in the matter. We are acting as judge concerning the situation. Taking this stance is the very basis of pride. We have exalted ourselves above the LORD’s opinion and plan. What we forget is how easily and quickly circumstances can change. One bad decision, one “accident” or sickness, one “better offer,” one “coincidence,” one prayer and the whole scenario flips over. We see it in movies all the time. We see it in life if we take the time to notice and then give credit where credit is due.

Zechariah was seeing with his physical eyes. He saw his wife advanced in age; he saw her barren for decades. What he could not see was God’s wondrous power and promise (Luke 1:18). Even then, God did, indeed, give him a sign–not the one he would have chosen, but a sign nonetheless (Luke 1:19-20). Gabriel made a believer out of Zechariah! His obedience in Luke 1:63 freed his tongue and he prophesied some major stuff in his song (Luke 1:67-79)!

Mary questioned Gabriel, but only in asking how because of the impossible nature of what he was declaring. She did not question the power of God, but was only inquiring of what to expect (Luke 1:34-35). Gabriel told her; he even told her about her “aunt” Elizabeth, thus giving her someone with which to share these amazing events. Then, he said, “For no word from God will ever fail.” (Luke 1:37). Now, THAT’S a promise! Mary’s response was as ours should be, “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”

When we read His Word, do we read to hear? Are we listening for instructions, explanations, and knowledge? When we pray, do we pray to connect with our Lord Jesus? When we sense His presence, all of our questions become secondary to Him. He becomes our focus rather than our circumstances. We have the same promise that Gabriel gave to Mary, “For no word from God will ever fail.” (Luke 1:37). Let’s live in that promise today as we stay connected to Jesus.

Abba, what happens is not nearly as important as my staying connected to You. I know that when I am connected and listening and obeying, that You work all things together for what is best for me, for those around me, and for Your Plan. I understand that You don’t promise to make me comfortable or even safe physically; in fact, You told your disciples just the opposite. What I am placing my faith and hope in is Your ultimate Plan to bring these two kingdoms together, the one inside me and the one where You are. “May Your kingdom come, may Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Amen.