FAVOR COMES BY AVAILING YOURSELF TO GOD

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.  Luke 1:38 (KJV)  

When the angel, Gabriel, visited Mary, she least expected that she would be highly favored over her peers. How can a young village girl expect to become the mother of God's own begotten son? Though she was afraid of such an enormous responsibility to be placed on her, she availed herself to be used as a vessel of noble use because she believed in God. She knew that once the Lord has spoken, He will certainly accomplish His word. She was assured of God's presence with her in her present situation. 

In the house of God, there are many vessels, some made up of gold, silver, bronze, clay, etc. The are some vessels of honor and some that are not. When the Lord speaks to a congregation, not everybody allows the word to penetrate the heart and water it to grow and influence the person's life. To be used of the Lord, you must open your self up to Him. You have to personally and wholeheartedly avail yourself to Him. You must declared that "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." God would not force Himself on you. You have the choice of allowing Him to use you or not.

Mary response was that "I am at service, Lord", "I am at your disposal, Lord, use me as you please", "I will do whatever you command me to do because I know that with you, nothing is impossible." There was danger of spoiling her marriage, and blemishing her reputation, but she left the issue with God, and submits entirely to His will. This is what humility in spirit means. Being ready to do God's work without fear of what it would cost you. This is the attitude a Christian needs to adapt in order to be used by God. 

Bring yourself low and allow God to elevate you today. You too can be highly favored like Mary. With God all things are possible. The favor of God would abound in your life during this season of Christmas in your your marriage, education, health, job, and church. Claim this by faith and expect a miracle this season in Jesus' name.