FEAR NOT

A Fear of God’s Plan

Luke 1:26-38

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Why do we fear God’s plans?

 God’s interruptions can be inconvenient.

• Personal Plans
  • “…betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph…” (v. 27)
  • Planning for an engagement/wedding.
    • Joseph & Mary had a plan.
•  God’s Plans
  • “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” (v. 28)
  • “…she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was.” (v. 29)
    • confuse; perplex (greatly)
  • “Do not be afraid…you have found favor with God.” (v. 30)
  • Interruptions are often invitations.

God’s purpose is usually different than our plans.

• A child for God’s purpose.
  • “you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son…” (v. 31)
  • “He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest” (v. 32)
• God’s purpose is miraculous.
  • “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” (v. 34)
    • We don’t have to understand God’s plans to be obedient.
  • “…that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.” (v. 35)
  • “For with God nothing will be impossible.” (v. 37)

What is God asking you to do?

 “See, I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary. “May it happen to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38, CSB)