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Joseph: Trusting God When Life Doesn't Make Sense

  • Writer: Amber Backus
    Amber Backus
  • Dec 4, 2019
  • 2 min read

Updated: Dec 6, 2021

December 6, 2021 Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25 Joseph learned to trust God, but it certainly didn't start that way! His first response to Mary's surprise pregnancy was to abandon the plan to wed. We know Joseph did not believe that Mary was carrying God's son, and we know that Joseph had decided to leave her quietly. Joseph was doing what he thought was best, but he judged incorrectly. That's when God intervened. Perhaps Joseph needed to realize that God's ways were higher than his own (Isaiah 55:8-9). The news Gabriel delivered to Joseph in a dream would be confirmed when the Roman Census was announced. Joseph would have been very familiar with these prophecies. Of course, they would travel the 90 miles to Bethlehem. Micah 5:2 said Bethlehem is where the Ruler of Israel would be born--Joseph knew the prophecy was about THIS BABY. There was no room for this couple. There was no room for Joseph's very pregnant wife. The arrangements were unlikely and uncomfortable. Did Joseph question himself? Did he and Mary feel like they should have done something better? Imagine how reassuring it must have felt for the shepherds to arrive and worship! Would they have had time to locate a mid-wife? Men generally were not involved in the delivery process in those days, but Joseph may not have had any other option. His hands were likely the ones that first received Immanuel, God with us. Never having training or understanding of this task, Joseph must have felt so nervous. Was he ready for Jesus? More appropriately, in this moment, are you? Joseph might not have understood the servanthood role Jesus planned, for Joseph was likely expecting a lion rather than a lamb. However, it appears Joseph trusted God. How many times in your life can you look back and see God drawing you nearer to him when life circumstances felt uncomfortable, unclear, or messy?

How many ways could Joseph had doubted his ability for the position God created him for? Do you think God could have made a mistake when he made you? Do not doubt his ways, my friend. In scripture, we never see or hear of Joseph wavering after that initial decision to leave Mary quietly. Even though it was not Joseph's plan to go to Egypt, He went. He knew God created him for this and now he knew to trust God with ALL OF IT. Do you trust God with ALL OF IT? He is your good shepherd. You can lie down and rest. He protects. He provides. He saves. There is no one like the Prince of Peace! Psalm 121

Do you trust God fully today? Are your thoughts and actions revealing this? Dear friend, I am praying for you today. Know you are loved beyond comprehension by your Creator. He knows you better than you know yourself, and you are yet loved. You are priceless to him.





 
 
 

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