In what ways can we express humility and reverence like Elizabeth in Luke 1:43? Elizabeth’s Humble Question “ ‘And why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?’ ” (Luke 1:43) Elizabeth’s spontaneous response overflows with awe toward God and genuine self-forgetfulness. Her words model the kind of humility and reverence believers can cultivate today. Recognize the Greatness of Christ, Not Ourselves • Keep Christ central in every gathering, ministry, and conversation (Colossians 1:18). • Speak of His Lordship openly, the way Elizabeth calls the unborn Jesus “my Lord.” • Measure success by faithfulness to Him, not by personal achievements (John 3:30). Marvel at Undeserved Grace • Like Elizabeth, marvel that God draws near to ordinary people (Psalm 113:5-6). • Regularly rehearse the gospel: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst” (1 Timothy 1:15). • Respond with gratitude rather than entitlement when God answers prayer or grants opportunity. Honor Others Above Ourselves • “In humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). • Celebrate the gifts and callings God gives to fellow believers instead of competing with them. • Offer sincere affirmation; Elizabeth blesses Mary instead of envying her unique role. Speak Words That Magnify God • Use speech to exalt God’s character and works (Psalm 34:1-3). • Replace self-promotion with testimonies of what the Lord has done. • Guard against casual or flippant talk about holy things (Ecclesiastes 5:2). Maintain a Heart Posture of Submission • “This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at My word” (Isaiah 66:2). • Approach Scripture ready to obey, not merely to gain information. • Accept God’s timing and methods without complaint, reflecting Elizabeth’s joyful acceptance of her role. Cultivate Awe in Everyday Moments • Pause to acknowledge God’s presence in routine interactions—Elizabeth did so in a simple household visit. • Practice silent reflection before responding, allowing space for the Holy Spirit to stir reverence. • Keep a journal of daily mercies to train the heart toward worship. Clothe Yourself with Humility • “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” (1 Peter 5:5-6). • Seek anonymous acts of service; hidden faithfulness shapes a humble spirit. • Confess sin quickly and seek reconciliation when pride surfaces. Anticipate Christ’s Presence with Expectant Joy • Elizabeth’s baby leaped for joy (Luke 1:44); let anticipation of Christ’s return stir similar excitement. • Gather with other believers expecting Jesus to be in the midst (Matthew 18:20). • Hold every earthly plan loosely, fixing hope on the promised future glory (Titus 2:13). Adopting these practices helps believers echo Elizabeth’s humble cry, “Why am I so honored?”—turning everyday life into a living testimony of reverence for our Lord. |
    |