Word For The Day

THE POWER OF GODLY FELLOWSHIP

READING: Luke 1:39-42

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!’

When the angel Gabriel visited Mary in Luke 1, she received a profound message about her purpose that would change her life forever. She was not ignorant to the fact that her being an unmarried pregnant woman could come at a cost – the threat of disownment from family, divorce from her fiancé, and the risk of poverty without support. Yet she joyfully accepted the Word by faith, believing that God’s power to sustain her in this miraculous calling was greater than any threat.

Understanding the importance of godly associations, Mary chose to confide in someone spiritually mature. After accepting the call to bear the Son of God, she travelled to her relative Elizabeth, who had also conceived miraculously in old age. Through Elizabeth’s encouragement, Mary found mentorship for her unique journey of pregnancy.

Ask yourself, who do you confide in? Do you make yourself accountable to those who are spiritually mature? In life, we must discern before we disclose, to be careful of who we confide in.

Mary’s visit to Elizabeth was spiritual, which was confirmed when John the Baptist leapt in Elizabeth’s womb and she was filled with the Holy Spirit. Though they were family, the true basis of their connection was spiritual maturity.

Elizabeth spoke words that strengthened Mary when her circumstances may have seemed precarious. Godly counsel, rooted in God’s Word, paves the path for solutions. Have you identified those God has sent to you - your mentor, advisor, confidant? Ensure those in whom you trust are led by God’s Spirit daily.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, give me the grace to watch and pray, to discern before I disclose, and to be careful of who I confide in. Help me to identify those You have sent me to. In Jesus’ name, amen.

From Abundant River Church International.