12 Days of God's Character: The Christmas StoryParaugs

Day 4: Praise For The Promise

Luke 1:52 (Mary’s Song)

Mary goes to visit her cousin Elizabeth (mother of John the Baptist) for 3 months in the midst of her pregnancy. Upon her arrival, Elizabeth confesses (via the Holy Spirit) her knowledge that Mary is carrying “her Savior”. This is such a beautiful moment where Mary gets to feel confirmation from the Lord, yet again, that her faith is worth it. Also, Mary can relate to Elizabeth, who is also carrying a miraculous child.

She responds with a few prophetic lines about the glory of God, even using the phrase, “He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble…” (Luke 1:52). For ages, God has been lifting up the humble, yet this phrase points to something that Jesus would say later on during his ministry. In Matthew 23:12, Jesus says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Mary’s response to Elizabeth (sometimes called ‘Mary’s Song’) is a picture of praise to the Lord, especially when reminded of His promise to her. So what does this mean for us? It means that we, too, can respond to the Lord’s reminders of His goodness & promises in our own life with praise!!

Take a moment and read the prayer that we have for you today!!

Lord, we pray for your Child who is reading this devotional right now. You have made so many promises to them throughout your word and through your relationship with them - let them not forget them. Let them be written on their very hearts as reminders of your goodness and mercy. Holy Spirit, would you open their eyes this week to see any and all opportunities to praise the name of Jesus and glorify Him well. Amen, amen, amen.