What can we learn from Mary's visit to Elizabeth about seeking godly counsel? A Spirit-Led Connection in the Hills of Judea Luke 1:40: “She entered the home of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.” • Mary has just received Gabriel’s staggering announcement. • Rather than staying isolated with her secret, she travels 80–90 miles to Elizabeth—someone older, godly, and experiencing her own miraculous pregnancy. • Scripture presents this meeting as literal history, orchestrated by God so that both women would be strengthened in faith. Mary Shows How to Seek Godly Counsel • Swift obedience: “Mary got ready and hurried” (v. 39). Obedient hearts run toward wisdom, not away from it. • Humility: the mother of the Messiah still recognizes her need for input from a mature believer. • Discernment: she chooses a righteous relative (Luke 1:6) whose life validates her counsel. • Mutual encouragement: Mary offers support even as she receives it. Genuine counsel blesses both sides. Elizabeth Illustrates the Ideal Counselor • Spirit-filled: “Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit” (v. 41). Counsel sourced in God, not mere opinion. • Affirming truth: she confirms Gabriel’s words—“Blessed is she who has believed” (v. 45). Godly mentors reinforce scriptural promises. • Blessing rather than envy: Elizabeth rejoices in Mary’s greater honor, displaying selfless love. • Seasoned faith: years of walking with God have prepared her to guide this young relative (see Titus 2:3-5). Key Principles We Can Apply • Move toward godly voices quickly; delay breeds doubt. • Choose counselors with proven righteousness and Spirit-led lives. • Expect counsel to align with revealed Scripture and to magnify Christ, not self. • Enter the conversation ready to give as well as receive encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Treasure confirmation that comes through Spirit-filled believers; it deepens assurance and joy. Supporting Verses on Seeking Wise Counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • James 3:17: “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.” • Titus 2:3-5: Older women are to be “reverent in behavior… so they can train the young women.” Living the Lesson Seek out a mature, Spirit-guided believer this week; share God’s recent work in your life and invite biblical input. Offer encouragement in return, following the beautiful pattern Mary and Elizabeth displayed. |
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