It Was Before~

Greetings~

Is it possible that Joseph – chagrined but noble – can still teach us a few things?  YES!  There is so much to learn and apply, but it’s for our own good and will lead to joy!

Remember, Joseph was chagrined, which means he was mortified, humiliated, and crushed.   But he was also a kind, bighearted, compassionate man.  That is why he determined to take care of things in a way that would protect Mary.

When, exactly, did he determine to take the high road?  Was it during the confrontation with Mary, or before he even set out to meet her?  This is actually important because it will make all the difference in the outcome. 

It was before.  And likewise, if we decide to keep our cool before we have that difficult conversation or encounter with our boss, spouse, kids, co-worker, in-law, or relative - even if we have been wronged, even if we are mortified, humiliated, and crushed - if we determine to be kind, bighearted, and compassionate, God will do wonders for us!  This will also avoid an escalation, false accusations, and hurt feelings. 

Matthew 1:20-21 “But as he was thinking this over, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.  She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins."

Joseph has already decided to do the right thing, but before he even gets the chance to show us his determination, an angel of the Lord brings relief.  In one fell swoop, his trust in Mary is forever secure, he learns that he will be the earthly father of Christ, and He gets to be the one to name the most AMAZING Person ever born! 

The blessings start to flow as soon as we decide to do the right thing. 

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Thank you for Joseph’s example.  If You can help Him then You can help us.  We want to be kind, bighearted, and compassionate no matter what.  The best part is that You will help us in our determination, and then bless us for it.  We receive it! In Jesus’ name, AMEN~