There are many practical applications we find that can help our lives as we read the biblical account of the Christmas story.  One is found in the first chapter of Luke, when the angel Gabriel appears to Mary to tell her that she will be giving birth to the Son of God.  Mary’s response in Luke 1:34 is an understandable one: “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”  God’s response to Mary is one that can bring life-changing strength to us: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you…”

As Christians who desire to fulfill God’s will, we will all face challenges at times that will take us beyond our own abilities.  That’s when we need to take hold of the same truth that God gave to Mary: The Holy Spirit will be with you to help you!  If we only do in life those things we know we can accomplish on our own, we’ll be very limited.  But if we have faith in God and faith in the Bible He gave us, we’ll step into the realm of possibility far beyond our own understanding.

Next time you’re faced with a task that you know is impossible for you, remember the promise of God given to Mary in Luke chapter 1.  And remember the last words the angel spoke to her in Luke 1:37: “For with God nothing will be impossible.”