Definition: Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on [me], to take away my reproach among men.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 1:25. It’s a really important and poetic sentence! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God is dealing with us – specifically, me – at a very specific point in time. Let's unpack it part by part: “Thus hath the Lord dealt with me…” - This means God has been actively working and influencing our lives. It’s not just random events; there’s a plan behind things. “…in the days wherein he looked on [me]…” – This is a bit more figurative. “Days” in this context refers to a period of time, perhaps years or even decades. "He looked on me" means God was watching and observing us. "...to take away my reproach among men." - This is the core of the verse. “Reproach” means shame, embarrassment, or being disliked. “Among men” means in the eyes of others – how people perceive us. So, this part says God is actively working to remove that feeling of shame and dislike that we often carry within ourselves. In a nutshell, it’s saying that God is gently guiding us and helping us to overcome negative feelings and be accepted by others. It's about God being involved in our life journey and striving to improve our standing with the world. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ life and ministry – that God wants to redeem us from sin and shame, and ultimately bring us into relationship with him. It's a message of hope and that God cares deeply about us. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss what it might mean in terms of our own lives? Give you some examples of how this verse is used in scripture?