DECEMBER 5 FAVOR AND SUFFERING By Christine Wyrtzen Musician, Author, Bible Teacher, Storyteller, Radio Host, Daughters of Promise
Today’s Passage: Luke 1:26–30
“And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!’” (Luke 1:28)
Mary was favored by God, yet her life was marked by suffering. She left her home eight months pregnant. She gave birth in a dirty barn. She fled to Egypt with a toddler. She watched her Son beaten and crucified.
How was she comforted? Through sound theology and the presence of God.
Mary knew the stories of her ancestors – others who were favored yet suffered. A life of ease never characterizes the journey of a disciple.
So why do we, when suffering, wonder if we’ve fallen out of God’s favor? Bad theology – and sometimes, the misguided words of other believers – can cause shame and confusion. Perhaps you are in a wilderness season. You set out on a path God laid before you, only to face trial after trial. Maybe you’ve begun to second-guess yourself – or worse, God’s love and faithfulness.
Suffering does not prove disfavor or disobedience. For the obedient believer, it is evidence of God’s favor.
I’m not suggesting we wear our pain as a badge, but rather that we rest in God’s purposes.
The One who favors us is the One who calls us to share in His suffering. God’s glory is seen most clearly when His children trust Him through their tears.
Let us renounce the lies of the enemy and run confidently to the Father – the same God who sustained Mary through the tumultuous events surrounding the birth of His Son, Jesus.
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