Thursday, July 17 A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.​—Prov. 17:17.

[Áine]

Thursday, July 17

A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.—Prov. 17:17.

 

Mary, the mother of Jesus, needed strength. She was not married; yet, she was to become pregnant. She had no experience raising children of her own, but she was to care for the boy who would become the Messiah. And since she had never had sexual relations, how would Mary explain all of this to her fiancé, Joseph? (Luke 1:26-33) How did Mary receive the strength? She sought help from others. For example, she asked Gabriel to provide further information concerning the assignment. (Luke 1:34) Shortly thereafter, she traveled all the way to “the mountainous country” of Judah to visit her relative Elizabeth. Elizabeth commended Mary and was inspired by Jehovah to share an encouraging prophecy about Mary’s unborn son. (Luke 1:39-45) Mary said that Jehovah had “acted mightily with his arm.” (Luke 1:46-51) Through Gabriel and Elizabeth, Jehovah strengthened Mary. w23.10 14-15 ¶10-12