Saying "Yes" to God in an already busy season

Christmas is a time of celebration and fun! But, as women, if we are being honest, it can be a stressful time of year. Between the cooking, the gifts, the coordination of events, and decorating, our days can feel overwhelming. This year, we have been challenged to say “yes” to God. Often, saying “yes” to one more thing – especially at a busy time like Christmas – can seem like God is asking us to add more to our already-full plates.

When the angel approached young Mary to tell her that she would conceive and bear a Son, her mind was probably flooded with similar thoughts that we would have. Despite any doubts or concerns, Mary said “yes!” She was willing to go with God and trust His plan for her life. The NIV says it this way in Luke 1:38 “ ‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.” Mary said “yes” to God’s invitation and “yes” to God’s plan. She didn’t know all that was to come. She didn’t know the future. She only knew that in that moment she wanted to give God her “yes”. She put her “yes” on the table.

Luke 1:30-32

Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name

Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.

Luke 1:38

Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

And like Mary did, saying “yes” to God’s plan is a gift that we give back to Him. God doesn’t need us but He invites us into His story – the beautiful story of redemption that He is writing for all of human history. He is inviting us to say “yes” to Him. He is inviting us to release our own plans and submit to His plans for our lives. Even with doubts. Even with concerns. Even in an already busy season.

Are you willing to give your “yes” to God, no matter what He is asking of you?

Prayer Points:

~ Lord, give me a heart of surrender to your will, remembering that Your best for me is better than any plan I have for myself.

~ Father, teach me patience to hear Your voice and wait on Your direction. Guard me from

saying “yes” to things that are not in align with Your perfect will.

~ God, strengthen my heart to enjoy this season of celebrating Your birth, knowing that You

are sovereign over all things, including time.

Father God, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, as Your daughters, and we worship You. You don’t need us, but You invite us into Your eternal story, and You allow us to be a part of what You’re doing here on earth. You allow us to be Your hands and feet. Thank You for the beautiful life of Mary, the mother of Jesus. What an honor to be a part of Your kingdom and see You do the impossible through our lives. Help us to say “yes” to You,

Jesus. When it’s difficult. When we want to quit. When we want to give up. When we are tired. Lord, help us to walk in obedience to Your plans for our life and to surrender our plans to You. And let us experience Your great and overwhelming love for us every step of the way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Women’s Ministry Team

Mid-Way Baptist Church

Flourish Women’s Ministry

www.mid-way.com/women