Humility

Consider:

Elizabeth and Mary demonstrate what it means to be filled with the Spirit. They also know how to bless, and one intriguing question shows another essential element in close relationships. This is perhaps the most difficult concept to practice but can bring about transformative progress between you and someone you love.

Read Luke 1:43. What does Elizabeth ask?

Elizabeth’s question comes not out of curiosity, but humility. Her attitude demonstrates an understanding of Mary’s status, “the mother of my Lord,” which brings her to question why she should be considered the host to such an honored guest.

Mary’s song also demonstrates a strong theme of humility. Read Luke 1:46-55 and record how many verses mention humility or the theme of humility.

Explore:

Relatives and friends walk closely through life with us and we sometimes zoom in on each other’s weaknesses. Holiday gatherings can seem quite overwhelming because of the intense time spent with those closest to us. Preparing your heart before such encounters will allow peace to prevail in even the hardest relationships.

This preparation begins with examining your own heart. What if your heart expressed the humility of Elizabeth? What if you approached difficult family members with an attitude of, “‘Why am I so favored’…to spend Christmas with you?” 

Think about someone you could exercise a spirit of humility toward. Do you think they would notice? How would you practically carry out a spirit of humility towards this person over the next few weeks?

Pray: 

Ask God to soften your heart toward a close family member or friend. Recognize any pride that exists in the relationship and ask God to replace pride with humility. Pray for continued endurance to carry out such humility in your relationship. Thank God for His perfect example of humility in sending the Messiah, His only Son, as a baby in a manger so long ago.