INTRODUCTION:

A. The main emphasis of this series of studies is the virtuous woman.
 1. Entailed in such studies is the understanding of the relation of  the will of God on 
  the matters under discussion and the realization and exemplification of the teaching 
  of God in the life of the woman/women involved.  Such guidance can be imparted in 
  two basic ways:
  a. A look at specific aspects of the characteristic features God has designated 
   concerning a/the virtuous woman.
  b. A look at specific women in the Bible whose lives and examples reflect 
   qualities to be emulated by women today.
  c. The second means is present in the designated study I am to make with you.
 2. Our emphasis:  The characteristics of Mary which are worthy to be followed by virtuous
  women today.
 3. Our method:  Study selected verses which portray dimensions of the character of Mary, 
  mother of our Lord.
B. Consider then in context these verses about Mary.  Other verses are omitted for lack of time.

DISCUSSION:

I. SUBMITTED TO GOD’S WORD (Luke 1:38).

 A. The angel’s message (1:26-28).
 B. Mary’s concern (1:29).
 C. The angel’s assurance (1:33).
 D. Mary’s question (1:34).
 E. The angel’s answer (1:35-37).
 F. Mary’s submission (1:38).
 G. Application.
  1. Marvelous and wonderful promise.
  2. Much yet to know and understand.
  3. Basic:  According to word God gave by angel.
 

II. PONDERING GODÕS WAY IN HER LIFE (Luke 2:19).

 A. The birth of Jesus came as promised (2:7).
 B. An announcement was made to shepherds (2:8-14).
 C. The sign is true (2:15-18)
 D. Mary kept these things and pondered them in her heart (2:19).
 E. Application.
  1. The consideration of God’s truth experienced in life is most assuring.
  2. Thus far, the Christ has come.  Other vistas lie ahead.
  3. God’s truth will abide with us and sustain us then as it does now and 
   as it has done in the past.
  4. These matters should be kept and pondered in our hearts.

III. SOME PAIN AND SADNESS WILL COME TO EVEN THE BEST OF LIVES (Luke 2:34,35).

 A. Simeon was a man guided by the Holy Spirit (2:25,26).
B. He foresaw the greatness of Christ’s ministry (2:28-32).
 C. He also foresaw the suffering yet to come (2:34,35).
  1. The cross is appointed, set (v. 34).
   a. Many to be blessed, many to refuse to be blessed by Him (v. 34).
   b. Jesus to be opposed in consequence (v. 34).
   c. Mary to experience much pain as a result (v. 35).
   d. The true nature of hearts will be laid bare by the truth of Jesus (v. 35).
  2. The joy of the occasion is mingled with the sadness of reality and pain.
 D. Application.
  1. Character does not entail freedom from all pain in life.
2. We are to hold fast and be strong when it comes.

IV. LOVE PROVIDES A WAY FOR DAILY NEEDS (John 19:26,27).
 A. The cross was a reality (John 19:17,18).
 B. Jesus, in love, made provisions for the daily needs of Mary (19:26,27).
  1. Some lives, however good, must end and loved ones will remain behind.  Jesus 
   knew this.
  2. He provided for Mary’s resultant needs.
   a. He knew the disciple whom He loved would be dependable.
   b. The plan was made known.
   c. The plan was made applicable.
 C. Application.
  1. However spiritual one may be, there is a practical aspect of life which must be
   considered and arranged.
  2. The love of our Saviour and those who rally around Him is best to follow.
  3. In such love, provision is made for daily life.

V. THE COMPANY OF GODÕS PEOPLE IS CHERISHED (Acts 1:14).

 A. Much has occurred since the words of the angel were spoken.
  1. Birth, early life, ministry, death, resurrection, and  ascension of Jesus.
  2. Mary remains loyal to the way of God, the divine nature of Jesus, and 
   the company of God’s people.
 B. Application.
  1. Life has its moments of joy, of sadness, of daily routine.
  2. Family and friends are of great strength and support.
  3. Also, the people of God are to be of help each to the other.
  4. Mary knew and exemplified this awareness.

CONCLUSION:

The sublime and the practical were united in Mary.
A. What could have been more sublime than the promise of the birth of the Lord?
B. Yet, for all that, Mary lived, loved, met heartaches, and grew in faith.
C. So it is with each of us.
 

         William Woodson