Imitate Mary’s Humility

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Among all the faithful women in the Bible, Mary the mother of Jesus holds a uniquely exalted place. She was chosen by Jehovah to bear and raise the promised Messiah—an honor no other human has shared. Yet the reason for this divine selection was not her background, wealth, or social status, but the remarkable condition of her heart. Mary’s response to the angel Gabriel and her song of praise in Luke 1:38 and 46–55 provide profound insight into her character. They reveal not only humility, but also deep faith, a rich understanding of Scripture, and genuine appreciation for Jehovah’s dealings. For believers today—especially women of faith—Mary serves as a radiant example of what it means to submit to God’s will with joy, reverence, and spiritual insight.

Mary’s Humility — Luke 1:38, 48

When the angel Gabriel informed Mary that she, though a virgin, would miraculously conceive and give birth to the Son of the Most High, her reply was simple and submissive: “Look! Jehovah’s slave girl! May it happen to me according to your declaration” (Luke 1:38). The Greek term she used for herself—doulē (δούλη)—means “female slave” or “bond servant,” reflecting total submission and lowliness before God. She did not exalt herself or question Jehovah’s choice. Though she would face misunderstanding, public shame, and personal upheaval, she accepted God’s will without resistance.

Later, in her song of praise (Luke 1:46–55), she again refers to herself as a lowly servant: “He has looked upon the low position of His slave girl” (v. 48). She recognized that Jehovah’s favor was not due to her merit but to His mercy. Mary did not view herself as worthy of praise but redirected glory to Jehovah: “My soul magnifies Jehovah, and my spirit has begun to rejoice in God my Savior” (v. 46–47).

How can I imitate Mary’s humility?
Cultivate a lowly view of self. True humility is not self-deprecation, but a clear acknowledgment of our dependence on God and the recognition that all good things come from Him (James 1:17). Avoid self-promotion, boastfulness, or the desire for recognition. Like Mary, be willing to embrace Jehovah’s will even when it is difficult, inconvenient, or misunderstood by others (1 Peter 5:6). A humble spirit invites Jehovah’s favor (Isaiah 66:2; James 4:6).

Mary’s Deep Faith — Luke 1:38, 45

Mary’s faith was evident in her immediate acceptance of God’s message. She believed the seemingly impossible—that a virgin could conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit—and did not doubt the angel’s words. Her relative Elizabeth commended her: “Happy too is she who believed, for there will be a complete fulfillment of those things spoken to her from Jehovah” (Luke 1:45). Mary trusted in Jehovah’s ability to accomplish what He declared, even when she could not understand all the details.

Her trust in Jehovah extended beyond the announcement. In raising Jesus amid dangerous political circumstances, fleeing to Egypt, returning to Nazareth, and watching Him grow in wisdom and stature, Mary had to walk by faith daily. She endured the pain of misunderstanding, especially as Jesus’ ministry expanded and opposition increased, and she remained faithful even at the foot of the cross (John 19:25).

How can I imitate Mary’s faith?
Develop unwavering confidence in Jehovah’s promises. This includes accepting His timing and methods even when they differ from your expectations. Trust that He sees the full picture and will work all things according to His will and righteousness (Romans 8:28; Proverbs 3:5-6). When facing trials, do not demand full understanding—respond with prayer, patience, and active reliance on God’s Word (Psalm 37:5). Like Mary, let your faith be marked by submission, not conditions.

Mary’s Knowledge of the Scriptures — Luke 1:46–55

Mary’s song, often called the Magnificat, is deeply rooted in Old Testament language and theology. Almost every line echoes earlier scripture. Her praise resembles Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1–10, and her references to Jehovah’s mercy, His dealings with the lowly, and His remembrance of Abraham reflect themes from the Psalms and the Prophets. For example:

“He has done powerful deeds with His arm” (Luke 1:51) recalls Psalm 98:1.
“He has brought down powerful men from thrones and exalted lowly ones” (v. 52) reflects 1 Samuel 2:7-8.
“He has come to the aid of Israel His servant” (v. 54) echoes Isaiah 41:8-10.

This scriptural fluency did not come from formal religious training. Mary likely learned these truths from personal study, family teaching, and regular synagogue attendance. Her knowledge was not abstract but woven into her expression of worship and shaped her worldview.

How can I imitate Mary’s knowledge of Scripture?
Make Bible reading and meditation part of your daily life. Memorize verses that reflect God’s attributes, promises, and expectations. Let Scripture shape your prayers, your praise, and your responses to life’s challenges (Psalm 1:1-3; Colossians 3:16). Like Mary, do not merely read the Bible—absorb it so deeply that it becomes the language of your soul.

Mary’s Appreciation — Luke 1:46–49

Mary’s praise is filled with gratitude. She begins with joyful exaltation of Jehovah: “My soul magnifies Jehovah… because the powerful One has done great things for me” (Luke 1:46–49). She did not see her role as burdensome but as an overwhelming kindness from Jehovah. Even though it would bring hardship, she viewed it as an act of divine mercy. Her appreciation overflowed into worship.

Mary did not focus on what she lacked or on the difficulties ahead. She focused on what Jehovah had done and would do. Her attitude stands in stark contrast to the entitlement and complaint often seen in human hearts.

How can I imitate Mary’s appreciation?
Cultivate gratitude for what Jehovah has already done in your life—His provision, His forgiveness, His calling you into knowledge of the truth. Express this appreciation in prayer, in speech, and in acts of service (Psalm 103:1-5; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Instead of focusing on what you wish God would change, praise Him for His goodness and trust that He is always working for your eternal benefit.

Do I Completely Trust Jehovah to Work Matters Out for Me?

Mary entrusted herself fully to Jehovah’s will, even though it meant facing danger, disruption, and lifelong responsibility. Her statement, “May it happen to me according to your declaration” (Luke 1:38), was not resignation—it was confidence. She knew that Jehovah’s purposes are always good, even when they unfold in ways we would not have chosen.

Trusting Jehovah means releasing control, resisting anxiety, and walking by faith even when the path is not clear (Philippians 4:6-7). It means believing that His will is better than ours and that His timing is perfect.

How can I better imitate Mary’s example?

Pray with openness: Ask Jehovah to guide your life, not simply to confirm your plans.
Accept divine interruptions: Be willing to follow God’s lead when He redirects your path.
Rejoice in serving: Like Mary, find joy in being used for God’s purposes, no matter how small or great your role.
Treasure spiritual things: Mary “kept all these things in her heart” (Luke 2:19). Meditate on Jehovah’s dealings, remember His faithfulness, and let them strengthen you for future trials.

Conclusion

Mary was not chosen because of status, intelligence, or ambition—but because of a heart wholly devoted to Jehovah. Her humility, faith, scriptural understanding, and appreciation made her fit for one of the most significant roles in history. She praised Jehovah, trusted Him, and submitted to His will with joy. Today, all followers of Christ—especially young women—can draw deep inspiration from her example. By imitating Mary’s heart, we, too, can be pleasing to Jehovah and become vessels for His purpose.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).