favored

Luke 1:26-28 “26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

"...you who are highly favored..." When I read this line in this passage of scripture, it jumps off the page at me. The angel Gabriel could have just greeted Mary and said what angels often said "fear not", but instead the angel greeted her and spoke to her character. Favor only comes from God, yes, but God takes notice of those pursuing righteousness and choosing to be set apart, sanctified. This favor was a product of divine grace.

However, Mary’s favor was driven by her ability to keep herself pure. No woman of broken virginity would have attracted this favor. Mary played her own role of sanctification, and she eventually found favor in the sight of God.

Be encouraged. God's favor is a blessing. He tells us in his Word that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. 

Don't shrink back from seeking to find favor in God’s eyes. God’s favor is not reserved for certain people. Favor does not look at your background, age, qualifications. We are accepted and loved by Him in Christ totally out of His grace. Thank God! But that should not stop us from seeking to live a life that pleases Him.

I believe Mary's acceptance of the Lord's will and plan for her life coupled with her humility and heart of gratitude plus her set apart lifestyle were all attributes that became magnets for God's favor.

Let's be like Mary...