Favor with God

Text: Luke 1:6 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” 29 But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS…..38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. (NKJV)

1. An Announcement from God (v26-28)
-Mary was made aware that God was speaking to her. In her case, it was an angel. God has a way of getting our attention when He desires to call us into action for His plans and purposes.

-(List the ways that God can speak to us and briefly share those here in the sermon)

2. A Response of Fear (v29-30)
-Mary was troubled and afraid. We too are initially afraid when God begins revealing what He wants to do. Even God speaking to us can be an intense experience that rattles us.

-(Share a time the Lord spoke to you and you were afraid when you considered what was happening.)

3. A Promise of Favor (v28-29)

-Twice the Lord lets Mary know He has come to favor her. It is important for us to know that God’s intentions for us are always in our best interest. It is a sign of favor when the Lord invites you into what He is doing.

-(share a story of someone who experienced God’s favor because of stepping into God’s plans)

4. A Conception and Birthing

-Mary was told she would conceive and birth a child. With us, there is also the development within us of what God wants to do. It is a step into a process. As we faithfully carry it, it will be brought forth.

-(share how it is important to be patient and allow God to develop things. Use other biblical examples here)

5. A Response of Faith (v38)

-Mary heard, overcame her fear and said "Yes, be it unto me!" She demonstrated faith and obedience.

-Call for people to say yes to what God is speaking to them.

6. A Focus on Jesus (v31)

-Mary’s call was to birth the Christ child.

-When God is at work in us, it is always about forming Christ in us and making him known to others. For us to live is Christ!!!