She was around twelve years old; not yet married but already betrothed, as was the custom for Jewish people in her time period. In a stunning set of events, an angel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28, NIV) He explained that Mary would be the mother to the Messiah that had been promised since the time of Abraham, thousands of years earlier. Not surprisingly, she was troubled by the announcement. Despite being a virgin, under Jewish law, she could have been stoned to death as an adulteress for being pregnant out of wedlock. Even if she wasn’t accused of adultery, it would likely end her betrothal to Joseph. She would be doomed to a life of shame, ostracized from her family and her community. However, Mary responded simply, “I am the Lord’s servant…May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38, NIV) She didn’t know how her story would unfold, but she trusted the One who was writing it.
Mary said “yes” to the adventure the Lord had planned for her. Kristi McClelland encourages us to be inspired by her example: “Think of all the times you were minding your own business and something came out of nowhere and grabbed your heart—something that changed the direction of your life.”1 She urges us to consider what opportunities God has for us to go on a “kingdom adventure.”
Maybe you’re feeling a bit confused or unsure about how to discern when to say “yes.” Or, maybe you’re a little scared about how God will mess with your life if you do. Each “yes” has led me significant spiritual growth and has expanded my comfort zone. That said, every opportunity may not be our best “yes.” Over the years, I’ve used a series of questions to help me discern the right answer. Try using the questions and verses that follow next time you sense a new kingdom adventure may be afoot.2
1. Does what I’m hearing line up with Scripture?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2, NIV
“I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.” Psalm 40:8, NIV
2. Is what I’m hearing consistent with God’s character?
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23, NET Bible
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31, NIV
3. Is what I’m hearing being confirmed through other messages? Do people with godly wisdom affirm this decision to say “yes”?
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Isaiah 30:21, NIV
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22, NIV
4. Is what I’m hearing beyond me? Is this something that will require me to rely on God’s strength, wisdom, and guidance rather than just my own skills or gifts?
“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” First Thessalonians 5:24, NIV
“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26, NIV
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” John 14:26, NIV
5. Would what I’m hearing please God?
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” Philippians 1:9-10, NIV
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” First Corinthians 10:31, NIV
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” Matthew 25:21, NIV
Once you’ve sorted out the biblical reasons for saying “yes,” it’s time to ask yourself about practical aspects of your current life situation:
- Can I handle this request along with my current responsibilities?
- How would this commitment affect my marriage, family, and/ or other important relationships?
- How will this “yes” mean saying “no” to other things?
- Do I have the time and mental space to add this onto my plate right now?
- Do I have emotional space for this commitment in my life right now?
- Is there something God is calling me to eliminate to make room for this?
- What’s holding me back from saying “yes”?
- What positive things could happen if I say “yes”?
As you’re praying about the decision, consider inviting someone you trust and respect to be praying with you. This will enable you to answer with confidence and peace. Above all else, remember that anything God calls you to do is for your good and His glory; He will equip you with exactly what you need. May you discover incredible joy as the Lord leads you to opportunities He’s prepared just for you!
Let “Same God” by Elevation Worship remind you that the God of Mary is there to guide you and equip you, just as He did for her. Click here to listen.
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1. Kristi McClelland, Jesus and Women: In the First Century and Now, Lifeway Press, 2019, 129.
2. Five questions adapted from What Happens When Women Say ‘Yes’ to God by Lysa TerKeurst, Harvest House Publishers, 2011.