Scripture to Read: Luke 1:34-38
God is so gracious with us, and He showed His graciousness to Mary as she asked Gabriel a great question. She asked Gabriel how she would have a child while still a virgin. This was a legitimate question, for there had never been, nor will there ever be again, a pregnancy occurring in a virgin. Mary’s mind was probably spinning as she considered how she could become pregnant as a virgin. God used Gabriel to explain to Mary how God the Holy Spirit would plant the seed in her womb. Then Gabriel told Mary about how Elizabeth was pregnant. Elizabeth was Mary’s cousin (Luke 1:36), though we are not sure if she’s a first cousin or a more distant cousin. Gabriel told Mary about Elizabeth because Elizabeth had been barren (unable to have children). So, God used Gabriel to confirm how He had performed a miracle in Elizabeth to reassure Mary that He would perform an even greater miracle in her. God had Gabriel say what everyone needs to be reminded of daily, “for nothing is impossible with God.” Just as Mary questioned Gabriel about how she would become pregnant, being a virgin, we too can ask God when things in our lives seem impossible. God loves our questions, but when He answers our questions, we must obey whatever He has revealed to us. Our obedience shows our faith in Him. Mary showed great faith in her response to Gabriel in Luke 1:38, “the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” Mary believed, and the angel departed.
Challenge & Application
· What are you currently struggling to believe that God can accomplish in your life?
· What has God done in you and for you that seemed impossible to you, but God answered miraculously?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!