Scripture to Read: Luke 1:34–38
In Luke 1:34, Mary asked Gabriel a great question. She asked how she was going to have a child when she was still a virgin. This was a reasonable question because there had never been, nor will there ever be again, a pregnancy with a virgin. This must have shocked Mary even to consider that she could get preg- nant as a virgin. God used Gabriel to explain to Mary that God the Holy Spirit would plant the seed in her womb. Then, Gabri- el told Mary that Elizabeth (her cousin, but not sure if she’s a first cousin or a more distant cousin, but they were cousins) was also pregnant. This was another miracle God had performed be- cause Elizabeth had been barren (unable to have children) for years. So, Gabriel confirmed how God had already performed a miracle within Elizabeth and could perform an even greater mir- acle within Mary. God had Gabriel tell Mary what we must be re- minded of daily, “nothing is impossible with God.” Just as Mary questioned Gabriel about how she could become pregnant, be- ing a virgin, we too can ask God when things in our lives seem to be impossible. God doesn’t mind our questions, but when He answers, we need to show Him we believe by responding in obe- dience to whatever He has shown us. Mary showed great faith in her response to Gabriel in Luke 1:38, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” Mary needed nothing more; she believed, and the angel Gabriel de- parted from her.
Challenge & Application
• What are you currently struggling to believe that God can accomplish in your life, and why are you struggling?
• What has God done in you and for you that at first seemed impossible to you, but God answered miraculously?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!