LEARNING DAILY

Matthew 1:20, But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”

In the last page of the blog I wrote “Christ will come and go…” It was meant to say “Christmas will come and go.” That is a big mistake.

Joseph faced an obvious dilemma when he found Mary was pregnant and he knows the child is not his. He was a righteous man, according to God’s Word; he is in a time of confusion and anguish. He loves Mary but the law dictates that he should “make a public example” of her situation. What would be your reaction? What would you do? Do you feel the tension in him? Nazareth is a small town in Galilee, and everyone will know Mary has been unfaithful. She has violated the legally-binding contract to marry Joseph; he decides to divorce her, “put her away” quietly. During this time when Joseph is trying to decide what to do, “an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream.”

Do you see yourself in Joseph when times of uncertainty come and you are challenged by what to do? What do you do when you are faced with faith and trust in what you do not see? Those are the times you must consider that God works in ways that are not always understood and are unexpected. It is during these times Believers are to depend on faith, trusting in God to lead them to make righteous decisions, knowing the Holy Spirit is present with them. He guides and shows the best way to respond through each situation Believers face. We just need to go to Him for the answers.

Permit me to finish the message from Jonathon Moore. His second point was, “God guides us just like He guided Joseph.” He said, “In the midst of Joseph’s trouble God showed up and prevented him from making a mistake. In Joseph’s uncertainty, his anxiety, God showed up and gave him direction.” Psalm 119:105 states, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (ESV). His Word provides words of truth and guidance to keep the Believer walking on the narrow way; as you are reading/studying God’s Word, pray for stronger faith and guidance to walk with Him in obedience! “Do not make life altering decisions during a time of chaos, a time of fear. Take a moment to think of the God of the universe guiding your steps, your life.” (JM). I wish God would explain His guidance to me. He does not do that. But He does give enough information to help Believers take their next steps (JM). He gives direction and encouragement through listening to sermons, through the Word of God, through relationships with other Believers – and hopefully through even this blog.

Hearing God’s voice in the things mentioned above requires patience, quietness, and the willingness to listen and be obedient. It is about seeking God’s will before our own and surrendering our lives to His will. Like Joseph, it takes a humble heart and the desire to follow God where He is leading. Believers should not be afraid; trust in God’s guidance, even when things look uncertain. His plan is greater than any of us can imagine!