How should we respond when God reveals His plans in unexpected ways? Setting: An Ordinary Priest Meets Extraordinary Plans “ When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and overcome by fear.” (Luke 1:12) A routine priestly duty turns into a divine announcement that John the Baptist is coming. God often steps into ordinary moments with extraordinary purpose. Recognize the Pattern: God Often Surprises the Faithful • Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-10) • Gideon in the winepress (Judges 6:11-12) • Mary in Nazareth (Luke 1:29-31) • Saul on the Damascus road (Acts 9:3-6) Each literal event shows sudden revelation is part of God’s consistent work with His people. Understand the Reason for the Shock • God’s ways surpass human plans (Isaiah 55:8-9) • His timing is perfect, not predictable (2 Peter 3:8) • Supernatural holiness confronts natural fear of the unknown Move from Fear to Faith 1. Listen carefully – “Do not be afraid” (Luke 1:13) 2. Believe God’s word as spoken – “My word… will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11) 3. Surrender understanding – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart” (Proverbs 3:5-6) 4. Obey immediately – Zechariah kept serving (Luke 1:22-23) 5. Praise steadily – his tongue loosed in worship (Luke 1:64) Align Expectations with Scripture • God’s plans advance redemption (Romans 8:28-29) • They fulfill prior promises (Genesis 12:3; Amos 3:7) • The unexpected is often already written Practical Steps for Today • Begin daily in Scripture, expecting guidance • Hold personal agendas loosely • Practice periods of silence and fasting for sensitivity • Stay in fellowship that affirms biblical counsel • Record answered prayers and divine surprises for remembrance Encouragement for the Journey “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord’s word to her will be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:45) When God reveals unexpected plans, respond by listening, believing, surrendering, obeying, and praising. |
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