Scriptures: Luke 1:26-38; Matt 1:18-25

1. Mary's Predicaments

A. First Predicament (vv.26-29)

• Greeting from an angel
• Reaction of Mary: greatly troubled wondering what kind of greeting it might be
• Assurance from the angel: Don't be afraid. You are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

B. Second Predicament (vv.30-34)

• Will be pregnant and give birth to the Son of the Most High
• Reaction of Mary: very human … how can it be… I am a virgin
• Tsunami of negative thoughts and emotions
• Maintains a faith of that awaits God’s explanation, direction and wisdom

C. Third Predicament (vv.35-38)

• It is the Holy Spirit Who will cause her to conceive by His Mighty Power
• Angel assured her that even her relative Elizabeth in old age could conceive
• Mary responds with a faith that believes and submits to the Sovereign will of God

2. Joseph's Predicaments (Matt 1:18-25)

A. First Predicament (vv.18-23)

• His whole world came crushing down… his fiancée carrying another man’s baby
• He will divorce her quietly
• The angel appeared to Joseph explaining the whole situation to him and giving him a godly solution
• He had bold faith when he dared to trust in the voice and guidance of the angel

B. Second Predicament (vv.24-25)

Joseph showed obedient faith:

• went ahead to marry Mary inspite of knowing she was pregnant but not with his baby
• refrained himself from consummating his relationship with Mary while she carried Baby Jesus

Mary and Joseph teaches us that in times of predicaments, we need faith that:

• trusts God is always with us
• awaits for God’s explanation, direction and wisdom
• submits to the sovereign will of God, knowing that He does all things right and good for us
• is obedient to do the will of God… even though it calls for sacrifice and discipline.