When Your Understanding Falls Short • Luke 1:26-38
By Sydney Charlton
I still fondly remember the songs and detailed activities that helped me learn more about Christ when I was a young girl. I vividly recall learning a song based on Proverbs 3:5-6. With a catchy tune and expressive motions, the children’s choir learned the verses: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” We used our hands to make a winding path motion, leading to the lyrics “He will make your paths straight,” when we flung our arms straight in front of our bodies.
That truth has been ingrained in me for decades now. When I fully trust in the Lord, life’s journey begins to make more sense. When we put our saving faith in Jesus Christ, our heart knows that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28), but our heads often need convincing. If we trust Him enough to save us from our sins, why is it so difficult to trust Him with every detail of our lives?
We must trust God to work through us and to do so in a way that reflects His supernatural power. Trusting Him in both the great and small aspects of our lives points others to His presence with us, and it reiterates that this power from His presence is available to them, as well.
Luke 1:26-30
Most people I know have received surprising news at some point in their lives. Whether the news brought discouragement or delight, it takes a while to gather composure. I imagine Mary certainly needed a minute or two as she processed all that Gabriel shared with her.
Questions raced through her mind, and she likely repeated the news to herself. But then she recalled what he said in his greeting. “I am highly favored? He said that I have found favor with God, so all these things will come to pass,” may have been one of her thoughts.
Something that seemed detrimental in Mary’s culture was really God’s favor being lavished upon her. Mary was a young girl who delighted in God’s presence, and He opened up seemingly impossible possibilities. This virgin girl would carry the Son of God in her womb.
Her trust in God had to increase. There wasn’t another option. You may find yourself in a seemingly impossible situation of a different kind this holiday season. Be encouraged! The One who extended grace to Mary as she navigated her role in the Story of God also offers grace to you.
Luke 1:31-34.
As Mary sat in awe of what she was hearing, she may have uttered questions like, “How can I not be afraid? Do you hear what you’re sharing with me, Gabriel? This doesn’t make sense!”
Mary listened intently as the messenger from Heaven outlined specific details, but she still didn’t understand. “How will this be?” echoed in her mind, but the God Who favored her set His plan into motion.
God is not leery of our lack of understanding. Far too often, we desire to know the intricate ins and outs of every possible scenario, but knowing every detail calls for little trust. Just as Mary wondered how the birth of Jesus was possible, our life’s circumstances prod us to wonder and to even question what God is doing.
Our wondering and questioning are not necessarily bad, but it is critical to allow those thoughts to compel you toward greater trust in the One Who has written your story for His glory. Mary found Him to be faithful in all things, and you will, too, if you let Him truly be God and you let go of the reins.
Luke 1:35-38
Mary’s story is evidence that God can accomplish what man deems impossible. Nothing is too hard for Him! There have been several times in my life when I have received news that would cause many to give way to despair, but choosing to have a similar attitude as Mary, I have experienced what God can do. God’s power can do great things through us when we are willing to be used by Him.
Whether this holiday season comes with great heartache or great joy, be encouraged knowing that the God of the impossible sees you and He cares for you deeply. Just as He journeyed with Mary in an impossible situation, He promises to be with you (Hebrews 13:5).
Charlton is the OneHope Missions Assistant at Crossgates Baptist Church, Brandon.
Comments are closed.