What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. Share your favorite part of Christmas and your least favorite part!
2. Read Luke 1:26-34. Discuss Mary’s reaction. Do you understand, blame, or applaud her for her question? How does the message point—Cling to God’s Word, not the details—apply to Mary’s situation? What do you cling to in the middle of chaos?
3. Read Luke 1:35-38. What crucial information does Gabriel share to encourage Mary? How would this encourage her? If you can put yourself in her place, how would you describe your level of faith and easy acquiescence? What is your "go-to" place for information when you need direction?
4. Read Matthew 1:19-21, 24-25. What do you gather about Joseph? Do you understand, blame, or applaud him for his original plan? How was God gracious to him? How did Joseph obey? What did he sacrifice and gain? How do you personally "Choose obedience over instincts"? How is God calling you to be obedient right now?
5. Final Thought: Whether you are in the chaos of a busy calendar, a financial crisis, or a relationship struggle, God is aware and has a plan. Read Psalm 119:43, 143, and 165. How can you encourage yourself—and others—with these verses? Is there an action of obedience that would move you towards a place of faith and peace right now? Are you willing to determine God’s next steps first, and decide in advance to choose obedience over instincts?
Deeper
Here are just a few of the appearances of angels in the Bible. Jot down what you notice about both the angel(s) and the character of God from these passages.
Numbers 22:21-35
Judges 6:11-24
2 Kings 6:15-17
1 Chronicles 14:13-16
2 Chronicles 20:13-23
Revelation 12:7-9