DECEMBER 29: “THE FAITH OF MARY: A MODEL FOR BELIEVERS”

The faith of Mary, the mother of our Lord and Saviour, as depicted in Luke 1:26-38 serves as a powerful model for believers. When Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she was perplexed and did question the possibility of conceiving a child as a virgin. However, her response to the Angel’s message strongly demonstrates her faith and trust in the sovereign God of Israel. Her response was; “behold the maidservant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” – Luke 1:38.

Mary’s faith demonstrated three key points and two lessons for every believer. The three major points are: humility, trust and obedience.

• Mary humbled herself before God, acknowledging her lowly state – Luke 1:38.
• She trusted in God’s power and promises, despite the impossibility of conceiving a child as a virgin especially in those days – Luke 1:37.
• Mary’s “yes” to God demonstrated her willingness to obey God’s will, even when it appeared unconventional – Luke 1:38.

The lessons derived from these main points are two-fold:

• Faith in God’s power: Mary’s story encourages believers to trust in God’s power and promises – Jeremiah 32:17.
• Humility and surrender: Her humility and total surrender to God’s will serves as a ready model for every believer – I Peter 5:6-7. The significance of Mary’s faith is a testament to the power of trusting in God’s plan and promise. Believers are inspired by Mary’s example.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the example of Mary’s faith. Help us to surrender to your will and trust in your power and promises in Jesus’ name, Amen.