THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 9TH OCTOBER 2025, THURSDAY MESSAGE
A Precious Gift
Lilian Okafor (Lagos, Nigeria)
Today’s Reading
Luke 1:26-38
When the angel came to her, he said, “Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you!” – Luke 1:28 (CEB)
A few years ago, I was struggling with postpartum depression. I felt as though my life had veered off course; my ambitions stalled in the wake of motherhood, and I felt isolated.
Reflecting on that period, I recalled Luke 1:28, which sparked a profound shift within me and started my healing journey. Here was an angel sent by God, assuring Mary of divine favor as she faced the prospect of becoming an unwed mother. I realized that despite my circumstances, God was beside me, blessing me with the precious gift of motherhood.
I began to meditate on these words from Luke 1:28 regularly, reminding myself that God had deemed me favored and destined for blessings. The angel’s message from God was not only to Mary but also to you and me: “Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you!”
Whatever challenges we face, God’s favor surrounds us. Let us remain aware of and rejoice in God’s presence and steadfast promises.
Thought for the Day
I will cultivate a spirit of rejoicing, for I am favored by God.
Prayer Focus
New mothers
Today’s Prayer
Loving God, thank you for your promises to us in scripture. Help us find solace in knowing that we are favored, loved, and blessed beyond measure. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 9th October 2025 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More