SATURDAY December 21, 2024
Joseph a Just Man
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.
Matthew 1:18-19
Joseph had a tender heart for his betrothed, Mary. Can you imagine how he struggled with the news of her pregnancy? We see in his character a man who was just––a man who wanted to do the right thing. He cared for Mary, and considered what was best for her and for her unborn Child. In his decision to put her away secretly, he would protect them both.
Joseph knew this situation must remain a secret––it could not be revealed. According to Jewish Law, if the elders heard that Mary had committed this serious offense, she would have been stoned to death! He would shield Mary from the public eye. Joseph, still thinking over and over about these things, was increasingly restless. God intervened and gave his mind rest by revealing His divine plan to Joseph. He sent an angel to speak these words to him in a dream:
“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).
You see, God revealed to Joseph that there was no sin committed in the conception of this Holy Child. Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit., and it was through God’s Spirit, the Child was conceived. Joseph, by design, was part of God’s divine puzzle. He was called, as a humble carpenter by trade, to help raise the Son of God––JESUS. God had a much bigger picture for both of their lives.
Your life is like a puzzle piece in the bigger picture of God’s plan of redemption. Seek Him today to align yourself with His will for your life.
Salvation is an act of God. It is initiated by God, wrought by God, and sustained by God.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
