Shawn on 8 March 2005

Luke 2, Isaiah 3, 4

Scripture
Luke 2:18-19
And all that heard it wondered at the things which were spoken unto them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

Observation

Whilst other people wondered and perhaps 'doubted' the word of God, given through angels to the shephards, Mary took it to heart. She treasured it and 'pondered' them in her heart.

Throughout the chapter, we see the Prophets, Simeon and Anna the Prophetess were all obedient to God's prompting too. Boldly declaring God. These people were all obedient to the call of God in their heart.

Application

In my daily life, there are and may be many many distractions calling out to me. Work, relationships, hobbies, play, daily cares. Even now as I do this devotion, my heart isn't fully centered on God.
I'm counting the minutes ticking by, worried that I'll be late for work. Wondering if my housemates forgot to leave the garage keys behind for me...(they did).

And I know that God is asking me to yield myself to His gentle word and presence. Just as Mary, the prophets Anna and Simeon all did. They were not just allowing God to use them, their obedience blessed God (Luke 2:28-32).

Scripture

Luke 2:49-52
And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? knew ye not that I must be in my Father's house?
And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth; and he was subject unto them: and his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
And Jesus advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Observation
After Jesus was lost and found in the temple,'doing his Father's work', he left with his worried parents and continued in 'subjugation' to them...and He kept increasing in wisdom and stature.

Again, obedience seems to be important. EVEN TO JESUS!

Application
Subjugation.
Today, I want to still my heart and shift it into obedience in Christ. Listening to His prompting in my Spirirt (Like Simeon) and to His voice and call. I want to give Him space in my heart in spite of my busyness.

Prayer
Lord. You know my heart. You see that it's troubled and full of cares and worries. But I want you to take dominion over it. I want it to be subjugated to your will. Despite all my fleshly worries, you are King over me. Lord, make my heart and spirit soft and tender to your mercies and voice every single second of my life.

Speak to me and hold my hand as I go out today and do the things I need to do. Be the inspiration behind my words, intentions and actions. BE King over my life. Amen.

Thanks for letting me share. Pray that the Word remains sharp in all our hearts.