Day 16 Ask God

Ask God

Luke 1 records the angel Gabriel bringing two messages. The first is to Zechariah, announcing that even in his older years, he and his wife Elizabeth will have a special baby.

The second message, some six months later, is to Mary. She has been chosen by God to carry the Messiah.

Looking quickly at the passages, the reader could easily be left thinking: “What’s the difference between Zechariah’s reaction and Mary’s?” They seem pretty similar but Mary’s is heralded and Zechariah’s actually incurs a discipline. He is unable to speak until after the baby’s birth.

Zechariah seemed incredulous. “How can I be sure of this?” (Luke 1:18) means he can’t believe it’s going to happen. This is what Gabriel picks up on.

Mary’s reaction is similar but not the same. “How will this be … since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34). Mary isn’t saying “I can’t believe it.” She’s asking for information. “How is it going to happen?” This is not the same as “How can it possibly happen?” Luke records her final words to Gabriel “I am the Lord’s servant … May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:28).

Don’t be afraid to ask God for more information. That needn’t be the same as unbelief. Some people dismiss God’s will outright. Others might embrace it quite blindly. In between is accepting His will but asking for a bit more detail. You’re allowed to do that. It’s up to God whether he gives it.

Make sure you always live your life in faith, dependent on God for all you need. And be willing to ask for a little more detail!

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