No Shame, Only Honor

Read: Luke 1:18-25

Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men. Luke 1:25 KJV

Many of us dread being asked questions about our lives.

The remarks some individuals make can give us a feeling like we are doing something wrong in our lives.

Some individuals are truly concerned and want the best for us.

While there are others that have other reasons or motives for asking.

We can only imagine that was how Elizabeth felt.

She was childless, despite being married for many years.

In those times, it was seen as a sign that God did not like her (1 Samuel 1:5-6).

Elizabeth had been living righteously (Luke 16), but her neighbors and relatives thought otherwise.

Listening to these thoughts could have caused Elizabeth to have doubts about how she was living her life.

Causing her to make changes that would only make things worse.

It was a blessing she did not let this be the case.

Elizabeth and her husband, Zacharias, kept on serving the Lord faithfully.

They continued to pray and wait to hear from the Father.

When they were well advanced in age, a miracle happened.

God’s angel spoke and acknowledged that their prayers had been heard (v. 13).

For them, because of their faithfulness, God had a special blessing.

They were having a child.

A child who would become the one to tell others about the coming of the Lord (Isaiah 40:3-5).

Their prayers had been answered.

Although it may seem like there is a long delay, God’s timing is always right.

All the prayers we offer up to God are heard.

They are successful because the Lord is working on our behalf.

We cannot expect anything to happen if we do not pray and remain faithful.

Prayer is the key, and our faith unlocks many doors.

His wisdom is always perfect.

He loves to show us favor (v. 25).

Keep living for Him faithfully and waiting patiently for Him.

He has a plan for us, just like He did for Elizabeth and Zacharias.

We are never to feel ashamed of the goals we have met.

Never feeling like we are not capable of achieving our goals.

We should take honor for all that we have already achieved and for the things to come.

God knows our hearts and hears our prayers.

A WORD OF PRAYER

Father, no matter our circumstances, we know You are working in and through us. You know our hearts and You hear our prayers. You are forever faithful and good. Help us to keep trusting in You.

In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen