The Spirit’s Power (Luke 1:34–38) | Resources
Passage: Luke 1:34–38
34 Mary asked the angel, “How can this be, since I have not had sexual relations with a man?” 35 The angel replied to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 And consider your relative Elizabeth—even she has conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called childless. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 “See, I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary. “May it happen to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.
Devotional
In Luke 1:34–38, Mary wonders how God’s promise could be fulfilled, and Gabriel answers that the Holy Spirit will come upon her, and God’s power will make the impossible possible. This moment reminds us that the Spirit’s power is not limited by human weakness, logic, or circumstance. What God calls us to, He also equips us for through His Spirit. Mary’s faith-filled response, “May it happen to me as you have said,” is a model of surrender and trust. When we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can walk in confidence, knowing that the same power that brought Jesus into the world now works within us to accomplish God’s purposes.
Memory Verse
“The angel replied to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” Luke 1:35
Discussion/Reflection Questions
1. When have I felt God asking me to trust Him in something that seemed impossible?
2. How can I depend more on the Holy Spirit’s power rather than my own strength or understanding?
3. What does Mary’s response teach me about faith and surrender?
4. How can I make space in my daily life to listen for the Spirit’s leading?
5. In what areas of my life do I need to be reminded that “nothing will be impossible with God”?
Advent Reading
Day 1 Joel 2:28–29
Day 2 Isaiah 61:1–3
Day 3 Acts 1:8
Day 4 Romans 8:11
Day 5 Galatians 5:22–23
For Families
Κids
Ask
• Why is Jesus’ birth a miracle? What does it teach about the Spirit’s power?
• Mary trusted God even when she didn’t understand everything. How can we trust God when things feel confusing or scary?
Listen
• “God with us, Your presence is here; Holy Spirit, fill us with hope and courage.” Emmanuel (God With Us) — Hillsong
Family Activity
• Wind & Candle Lesson — Demonstrate the Spirit’s unseen power using a candle and gentle breath.
Serve Someone
• Write or record a message of hope for someone.
Students
Reflect
• The Spirit brings life, fulfills God’s promises, and empowers God’s people. Just as the Holy Spirit brought Jesus into the world, He works in us today to give courage, peace, and guidance.
Listen
• “God with us, Your presence is here; Holy Spirit, fill us with hope and courage.” Emmanuel (God With Us) — Hillsong
Read
• “Instead of the Holy Spirit making the Christian life better, he makes the Christian life possible.” How Are Believers Empowered by the Holy Spirit? — Christianity.com
Serve Someone
• Write or record an encouraging message to someone who needs hope this week. Let the Spirit help you point others to Jesus.