Question: What does it mean that Elizabeth “ Conceived ” (withdrew) for five months?
Answer: Let’s take a look…
Luke 1:24 (ESV):“After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden.”
The word translated here as “kept herself hidden” or “withdrew” means “to separate oneself” or “to withdraw.” “After these days, Elizabeth conceived and withdrew for five months.”
Elizabeth separated herself from societypossibly to thank God for the miracle of conceiving in her old age, or to avoid envy and hostility from others, or maybe to rest and spend private time reflecting and communing with God. Any one of these reasons—or all of them—could explain why she withdrew.
We also see that this was a good thing for Elizabeth because later, when she met Mary, her relative, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke prophetically about Mary and the child Jesus in her womb.
What does this teach us?
Not every blessing from God needs to be announced or witnessed immediately. Sometimes it’s good to withdraw or take time apart to thank God and pray for protection over that blessing. Announcing God’s blessings or the doors He opens before you find peace and clarity can be risky for you and those you share with.
Therefore, it’s wise not to be quick to speak but to be quick to seek quiet time with God and reflect on His goodness before sharing or testifying.
May the Lord help us.
Feel free to share this good news with others.
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