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Signposts: Daily Devotions

Wednesday, December 23

And Mary said, "My soul magnifiess the Lord,and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior."
—Luke 1:46, 47

When we get a promotion at work, or finish a project we've been working on for a long time, or our child does well in school, or we are given a gift for a job well done, we are quick to give ourselves a pat on the back. 

It's appropriate to feel proud of accomplishments in life because that kind of pride gives us a strong sense of self. Yet there is always the danger either of taking our goodness for granted, or failing to recognize the primary foundation of that goodness.

When a mentor believes in us more than we believe in ourselves,  we step out trusting in their belief in us. We know inside, however, that we would not have stepped out had it not been for their encouragement. We are grateful for our mentor and rejoice in their support.

When Mary was given a task that seemed beyond her worthiness, she may have felt like patting herself on the back. Her first response, however, was to acknowledge the glory of God and to rejoice in the movement of God in her life. She understood that when God calls us to a new task, or affirms us with trust, the response that gives us spiritual fulfillment is to rejoice in God rather than ourselves.

Gracious God, when I am surprised at my own worthiness, let me give you thanks.