This week we’re investigating the truth regarding Christmas. While we navigate through massive malls, peruse exquisite boutiques, my goal is that the real meaning of Christmas IS NOT lost. Additionally, I want to show you how God uses EVERYDAY people to do amazing things. Scripture is replete with examples of these people.
Was God arbitrary when He chose Mary? The Bible says, “God is looking for people to use.” If you’ll just get useable, God will wear you out! You have not really lived until you experience being used by God to bless somebody else. Some of you are saying, “God could never use me.” Please allow me to sum up that thought with two words: You’re wrong!
Not only can God use you, but He wants to use you. He’s waiting. He’s eager to use you in ways you have not even imagined. When God decides to do something major, why does He chose ordinary people? Why Did God Choose Mary?
In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. Luke 1:26-27
Was it because of her education? No!
Because she didn’t have any.
Was it because of her wealth? No!
Because she was poor.
Was it because of her maturity? No!
Because she was a teenager.
God took an ordinary woman and used her in an extraordinary way. That’s what makes her special.
God chose Mary because she TRUSTED Him.
Mary had all kinds of fears, but she never let her fears control her. Check out Mary’s initial reaction:
Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. Luke 1:29-30
The angel explained what would happen and Mary’s initial reaction was shock. The Greek word for “confused and disturbed” is “petrified, scared to death.” Wouldn’t you be a little scared if an angel showed up at your door? She had every reason to be frightened but she didn’t let her fears control her.
As I reflect on this passage, I see four types of fears Mary probably experienced. First, there was the fear of criticism. She’s probably thinking, “What’s everybody going to think? I’m a virgin and I’m having a baby.” Next, there’s the fear of the supernatural. She’s thinking, “What will happen to me?” Additionally, there’s the fear inadequacy. I’m led to believe she’s thinking, “How can I handle this?” Finally, there’s the fear of change. She must be thinking, “This will change my life forever?”
So what’s the lesson behind all of this you can apply to your life immediately?
God Uses People Who DECIDE to pay the cost.
There’s always a cost in following God’s plan for your life. Therefore, here’s another resolution to consider for 2011: “God, I want to get closer.” It will not happen automatically, it’s going to cost you something. You’re must be willing to give up some things. There will always be costs, risks, and it will always require faith.
How do I know:
IT COST MARY HER REPUTATION & COMFORT!
