12 Days of God's Character: The Christmas StorySample

Day 3: Faith In Unlikely Places

Faith is a tricky thing. We want to have faith in all things, and yet, it is so difficult to truly put our trust in the plans that the Lord has for us. He promises to be near to us in a heart-break, but we doubt it when we can’t feel Him. He promises that He’s a Father that gives good gifts, but we have trouble seeing His goodness.

At the time of Jesus’s birth - the world was dark. It was hard to see the Lord’s provision. In fact, 400 years had gone by without a major prophet rising up to speak God’s words. But, it’s in the midst of this that God chooses an unlikely mother for our Savior: a young girl named Mary.

During this time and culture, purity was of the utmost importance. Mary knew that by giving birth to Jesus, she was going to be facing questions from everyone about the legitimacy of His birth and who was His “real” Father. She would have also feared that Joseph would no longer want to marry her. And worse - culture would have considered her soiled and dirty - thus leading to being possibly cast out from her father’s house, left for dead.

And yet, Mary responds in faith. She says, “I am the Lord’s servant,” (Luke 1:38) - thus surrendering to God’s plan. It would have seemed impossible. It would have felt ridiculous. Can you imagine the conversations she may have had with herself - “Mary, people are never going to believe that an ANGEL came to visit you”, “Mary - there is no way that you would be chosen for this”. Despite all of the possible doubt, attacks of the Enemy, and confusion - she walks in faithfulness.

And we can aspire to have this same faith, boldly going to the throne of God and asking Him to strengthen us in that same way.

Take a moment to think about where you are experiencing doubt in God’s promises or a lack of belief in His goodness. Then, pray with us.

Lord,

Would you show us your heart today? Would you strengthen each of us to have the faith that Mary did. You can do abundantly more than we can think, ask or imagine. Let us walk in the faith of that. In the truth of that statement. In the goodness of that promise. You are so so good, Father. We love you and we celebrate you. Thank you for all that you are and the faith that you continue to instill in us. Amen, amen, amen.