Scriptures: Luke 1:26–38
Reflection Song: “The Blessing” by Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, & Elevation
What Had Happened Was…(the modern summary)
So Boom…(the revelation)
If we’re honest, many of us want bold results without bold prayers. Bold prayers require an “if it is in Your will” kind of mentality and a willingness to accept the outcome. In this passage, we see a young Mary whose entire world was changed by a divine encounter with an angel. How many times have we wanted to know God’s plan for our lives but lacked the spiritual maturity to receive the vision?
Although Mary had several questions for Gabriel about his prophecy over her life, in the end she had the heart to receive his message. Even with news that could have damaged her reputation and placed her in danger as a woman engaged yet suddenly with child, Mary remained composed.
Leadership is not only about how you lead those around you, but also about how you lead yourself. How you handle adversity in your own life on a smaller scale is often an indication of how you will handle adversity when leading others on a larger, more impactful scale.
Mary’s yes to God changed her life and everyone else’s. It’s important to note that answering God’s call is not always easy. In Mary’s yes, she experienced the deep joy of a mother’s love through the birth of her son, but she also endured the pain of losing him. Still, Mary knew her son was not hers alone, but belonged to the Lord and to all humanity.
QTNA (Questions That Need Answers)
- Have you ever been afraid of a plan God revealed to you about your life? If so, what do you think was at the root of those feelings, and why do you think it can be hard to accept what you cannot yet see?
- Scripture Recharge: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7, ESV)
- Being called to lead at a young age can be intimidating. Have you ever felt called to lead before you thought you were ready? How did you find the confidence to step into that calling?
- Scripture Recharge: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12, ESV)
- Being called isn’t something we choose, but how we respond after the calling is. What do you feel God is calling you to do in this season? Are you currently walking in that calling? If not, what steps can you take to move forward in alignment with His plans for your life?
- Scripture Recharge: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
- When was the last time you approached God with an “if it is in Your will” prayer? Reflect on the difference between moments when you acted on your own will versus when you trusted His. What did you learn from each experience?
- Scripture Recharge: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5, ESV)
- What are some practical ways you make sure you’re leading well in your private life? How have those adjustments shaped your growth and strengthened your character?
- Scripture Recharge: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10, ESV)
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