2021 – Available 21 Day Fast
What Set Mary Apart

Luke 1:28 NLT
“And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”

What was it that attracted God to Mary? It says she was “highly favored.” The angel goes on to remind us about this again two verses later, saying… “You have found favor with God!”

The dictionary defines favor as: “approval, support, goodwill, above and beyond, kindness and preference.” All of this that attracted God to Mary can be available to every Christ-follower.

But the question still remains, what were the qualities in Mary that brought on God’s favor?

First, she responded to the angel’s message with a simple faith in verse 38a, “I am the Lord’s servant…”

1. Even though it says Mary was troubled, she didn’t refuse or run from the assignment. It’s easy to run when things aren’t going our way. God is looking for those who will not run, and in spite of how it looks around them, they will stand on His word and walk in His authority.
2. She says, “I am the Lord’s servant.” She understood, even at a young age (in her teens) that being the Lord’s servant brings with it challenges, trials, and possible adversity, but she was willing to face it and be victorious! She made her life available for God to use. You can’t use the statement, “I am the Lord’s servant,” but not be available to give to, and serve others.

Second, she humbly submitted herself to God’s will. Verse 38b, “May everything you have said about me come true.”

1. We often forget that being humble doesn’t mean we are weak! Her faith in God brought supernatural strength to face and overcome any challenge that life would bring… pregnancy out of wedlock, engaged to be married, and giving birth in a stable… to name a few.

May this new year be a time for us all to exercise our faith in God. It shouldn’t be a complex faith, but a simple faith that lives according to God’s Word each and every day.

Your personal application: Keep a mindset that you will remain ready so that in whatever situation, God can use you to impact those that He brings into your life.