Praise Him with Blinders On

[This is the fourth in a series devotionals of exploring and learning from Mary's walk with God as written in the book of Luke. First post is found HERE.Second post is found HERE Third post is found HERE]

Luke 1:;46-55
Mary’s Hymn of Praise
And Mary said, “My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has begun to rejoice in God my Savior,
because he has looked upon the humble state of his servant. 
For from now on all generations will call me blessed,  because he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name; from generation to generation he is merciful to those who fear him.
He has demonstrated power with his arm; he has scattered those whose pride wells up from the sheer arrogance of their hearts.
He has brought down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up those of lowly position; he has filled the hungry with good things, and has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, remembering his mercy, as he promised to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

This was Mary's response once the shock had subsided and she had bonded with her aunt ('sister in Christ').  She begins first and foremost with praise and glory for God.  As I meditated on this word, I once again tried putting myself in Mary's position, imagining the fear of the unknown, acknowledging the ridicule society would throw her way with gossiping rumors of their perception of what 'really' is happening here.  I consider how God calls each of us to do things for His glory that may bring with it controversy, discomfort or questions from those my flesh seeks approval from here on earth.  Godly choices that may not be popular choices.  Godly submission that may conflict with the wordly perspective of 'self promotion'. 

And then I consider how I respond to such callings in my life.  Mary's hymn of praise reminds me that the response God desires is pure praise.  Humble, soul submitting praise.  Blinders on, eyes focused only on Him and the purpose of His plan for His kingdom. 

Mary is excited to be serving God, even in a precarious position that could harm her 'reputation' in the world.  It could bring hardship in her future and she is definitely not being 'paid' to do this. 

How is God asking you to serve Him?  Do you have your blinders on to see only that which is His calling?  Are you focused on seeing the purpose of your life for the plan of His kingdom?  Things we must be aware of that may distract us from having such focused vision include concern about possible ridicule from the world's perspective, fear of how you will live or concern for income over trust in His provisions. 

We must focus instead on a response of YES with great excitement.  True JOY comes when our motivation is to glorify God even at the cost of our own popularity, wealth or fame.

There is more to gleen from Mary's hymn of praise, which we will explore tomorrow.  Today, lets spend a moment in prayer giving God the praise for what He has done in our lives and seek to embrace that which He desires we focus on for our future.

Prayer:
Lord God, creator of all, Master of all plans, lover of my soul.  I rejoice in the salvation provided by the sacrifice of your Son.  I rejoice in the mercy you showed to us all at the cross.  I rejoice in the grace You pour out on each of us.  Without your perfect plan of salvation, I would fall short and never have the joy of sitting at Your feet for comfort, guidance, wisdom and protection.  I would not know the joy of such intimate fellowship with You.   Give me eyes today that are focused on Your will, Your plan and Your desires.  Give me a heart that desires nothing more than to submit for the glory of Your plan.  Protect my heart from fears, doubt and concerns of what the world may think.  I submit my all to You Lord.  For Your glory.  In the precious name of Your Son I humbly pray.  Amen. 


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