Strength for TomorrowSample

Day 25: Mary, the mother of Jesus – Strength to Endure the Unimaginable

Scripture: Luke 2:34-35, John 19:25-30
Key Verse: “A sword will pierce your soul too.” – Luke 2:35

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was no stranger to hardship. Her life took an unexpected and often challenging turn when she said yes to God's calling. Mary was a young woman engaged to Joseph when she became pregnant with the Son of God, a circumstance that would have been scandalous and challenging in her community. Yet Mary accepted God’s plan with faith, even though it meant enduring rejection, misunderstanding, and an uncertain future.

But the most significant test of her strength came as she stood at the foot of the cross, watching her son endure unspeakable suffering. The angel’s words that a sword would pierce her soul were fulfilled as she watched Jesus, her beloved child, crucified. No mother should ever have to watch their child die in such a cruel way, yet Mary endured the unimaginable with strength that could only come from the Holy Spirit.

Mary’s story is a powerful reminder that strength doesn’t always look like victory or triumph in the world’s eyes. Sometimes, strength is in the quiet endurance through suffering, in trusting God even when we don’t understand His plan. Mary’s example shows us that God gives us the strength to endure pain and hardship, even when we cannot see the purpose.

It’s easy to think that strength is about overcoming obstacles easily or having all the answers, but true strength is shown in how we endure the most challenging times. Mary remained at the foot of the cross, standing in the place of pain but also the place of faith. We may encounter times of deep sorrow or confusion in our lives, but like Mary, we can hold onto the strength from knowing God’s presence is enough, even when we don’t yet understand why.

Prayer Focus: Pray for strength to endure life’s hardships with grace and faith, trusting that even in the most challenging moments, God is with you and has a purpose for your pain.