And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, (NAS) Luke 1:46
“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people. (NIV) Luke 1:68
Look at how Mary and Zechariah reacted to God’s work in their lives, they immediately praised God. You may think that was the natural thing to do, but take a closer look.
Mary knew she would be ridiculed for being pregnant and unmarried. . . she faced the reality that her fiance, Joseph, could break their engagement. . . and she understood that the penalty if she was found guilty of adultery was death. And yet in the midst of that, out of her heart came praises to her Lord (Luke 1:46)!
Zechariah had just regained his ability to speak after being mute for over 9 months. He didn’t express bitterness against God. . . nor did he question God’s methods. . . he immediately began praising His Lord, the God of Israel (Luke 1:68).
What is your reaction to difficult situations? Do you complain? Question God? Become bitter? Withdraw from people? Try to escape from your problems? The next time you’re in a predicament, try following Mary and Zechariah example. . . turn your eyes toward God and praise Him for who He is!
