Irrespective of Blessings

(Taken from Luke 1)

Luke 1:6&7
“Both of them [Zechariah & Elizabeth] were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly. But they had no children...”

Here we have a couple, both serving God & walking blamelessly in His ways. They kept His commandments. They were obedient... yet she was barren. They did not have the blessing of children.

But then their prayers were answered late in their years (v.13), way beyond the point where human logic would have it. And I’m sure that once heard, they cared not for the timing of God, but rejoiced in his providence.

Point to ponder: Judging from their character- one can see that they would have served God even if He never blessed them with a child.
We would do well to notice that serving God with all our heart, for all our earthly years should happen in spite of the blessings He gives, or withholds. Even though we might be “barren” [empty, desolate, bleak, unfruitful, unproductive] – we can still walk in His ways and trust Him.

Prayer:
God – this is a deep, spiritual maturity to have. I want to have such a heart... to serve You, irrespective of your blessings. Thank you for the blessing of answered prayer. Please give me faith to trust You in times when you do not answer, or when your answer is “No.”