Scripture to Read: Luke 1:52-53
We have read Mary's praise to God for His might in both salvation and judgment in the last two devotions. Today God's salvation and judgment are shown in contrast with one another. In Luke 1:52-53, Mary's praise to our Lord reveals the difference between those who belong to our Lord and those who do not, "52 He has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty." As we saw yesterday, the similarities in Proverbs 3:34 to the words recorded in Luke, we see again today similarities to Psalms 75:7 & Psalms 147:6. God had Mary state that those who want to sit on their throne and rule their own lives will be brought down by the power of God. But those who humble themselves under God's mighty hand will be exalted by God like He did Mary. We also read how the hungry will be filled with good things from our Lord. But for the rich, God sends them away empty. Being rich in this world is not bad, but when riches become the god of anyone, God in turn rejects them. We must continually examine our hearts to be sure we are not seeking to be mighty or take the throne of our hearts. We must make sure we are pursuing our Lord, for He alone satisfies. He and His Word must be our treasure, for nothing in this world or of this world can bring us everlasting joy and contentment.
Challenge & Application
1. Confess to God the ways in which you have sought the throne of your life where only God should reign.
2. How are you finding satisfaction in your fellowship with Jesus Christ, especially during this Christmas season?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!