Have you ever wondered what true submission to God looks like in today’s world? Mary’s story provides us with a powerful model that’s just as relevant now as it was 2000 years ago.

The Challenge of Unexpected Divine Interruptions

Life changes can be deeply disruptive. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a different city, or facing an unexpected pregnancy – change often tests our faith. But what happens when God Himself is the author of that change?

Mary faced the ultimate divine interruption – one that would not only change her life but the entire course of human history. Yet her response teaches us something profound about faith and submission.

Two Critical Elements of Biblical Submission

True submission to God rests on two fundamental pillars:

1. Our readiness to confess His authority over us
2. Our willingness to subject His will over ours

Confessing God’s Authority: The “Why Me?” Question

When God interrupts our plans, our first response is often “Why me?” This question reveals our true identity – do we see ourselves as servants of God or masters of our own destiny?

Mary’s response was revolutionary:

“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord.” – Luke 1:38

This wasn’t just a polite acknowledgment – it was a bold declaration of her identity. Before the angel’s visit and after it, she remained steadfast in her role as God’s servant.

Accepting God’s Will: The “Why This?” Struggle

The second challenge we face is accepting God’s specific plan for us. Mary faced a situation without precedent – a virgin conception. Unlike other biblical miracles, there was no previous example to draw faith from.

Yet her response was extraordinary:

“Let it be to me according to your word.” – Luke 1:38

Finding Faith in Unprecedented Situations

Many of us struggle when God’s plan doesn’t match any previous experience or testimony. But Mary teaches us that true faith doesn’t require precedent – it requires trust in God’s character.

Consider these powerful truths:

– God provides both proof and promises to support our faith
– His timing is perfect in revealing His plan
– Nothing is impossible with God

The Modern Application

Today, you might face situations that seem impossible:
– Standing firm in your faith at work
– Making difficult ethical choices
– Following God’s leading against cultural norms
– Trusting God with your future when the path seems unclear

The key is not having all the answers, but having complete trust in the One who does.

Your Faith Challenge

This week, I challenge you to:

1. Identify areas where you’re struggling with “Why me?” or “Why this?”
2. Write down Mary’s declaration: “I am the servant of the Lord”
3. Pray specifically about one situation where you need to submit to God’s will
4. Take one concrete step of obedience in that area

“And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14

A Prayer for Submission

Father, like Mary, help us to submit both our identity and our will to You. Give us the courage to say “yes” to Your plans, even when they differ from our own. Help us to trust that Your ways are higher than our ways, and Your thoughts higher than our thoughts.

Remember This Truth

Just as Mary’s submission brought forth Christ into the world, your submission to God’s will can bring forth His purposes in your life and the lives of others.

Will you, like Mary, choose to be a vessel for God’s purposes? The choice is yours, but the impact of your decision could be greater than you imagine.

Share in the comments below one area where you’re learning to submit to God’s will. Let’s encourage each other in this journey of faith.