As followers of Christ, we need God’s Word to speak to our everyday life. Join me in the next few posts in drawing principles from the Christmas story to help us in our everyday walks of faith.
Imagine being in the shoes of Mary and Joseph. Imagine their conversations after finding out she was pregnant. These faithful, humble, righteous young people were up against the unexpected. Joseph knew he wasn’t the father … who was? Can you imagine the confusion, wondering, heartache, questions?
Is there something going on in your life, or the life of a friend or family member, that just does not make sense? For me, when overwhelmed by the unexpected, I can try to fix things or figure them out. Check out three things we learn from Joseph:
- Act in love until you get further marching orders. Joseph, the “righteous man” came up with a plan to protect Mary’s reputation.
- Listen for God’s message. For Joseph it was an angel with an explanation of what was going on. For us, it will be His voice in the Scriptures, counsel of a godly friend, and maybe even an angel. Scripture tells us that “some people have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). God has a habit of showing up at just the right time. Be ready.
- Obey God’s direction. Joseph wastes no time. Verse 24 says, “When Joseph woke up [after the angel spoke to him] he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.” Keep in mind, his obedience was while the crisis was still playing out.
Is there something you are currently facing where you can apply these three lessons from Joseph?