Joyful Living Challenge – Day 6
April 9, 2024
Focus Like Mary
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”
Luke 1:46
Welcome to The Joyful Living Challenge!
“When the circumstances around us are utterly contrary to what we want, we have to become extra-disciplined about where we allow our thoughts to dwell. Our focus is critical. This is what made all the difference in Mary’s life. Her razor-sharp focus on God was a key component in her ability to remain content despite intense suffering. This is seen clearly in the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55)…
Mary’s focus on God’s goodness and greatness filled her heart with gratitude, which is the best antidote to discontent. A heart full of gratitude leaves no room for doubt, dissatisfaction, and unhappiness. In addition to her focus on God, Mary focused on who God had created her to be. She never lost sight of her God-given worth. Reread the Magnificat, noting all the things Mary said that refer to her own dignity.”1
Today’s Challenge:
Memorize a verse from the Magnificat that speaks to your own dignity and worth.
Repeat it throughout the day for encouragement.
1 Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Discovering Our Dignity, (USA: Walking with Purpose, Inc., 2017) 305.