Matthew 1:19 (KJV)
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.
What does it mean to be espoused? A lot more than our engagements present day. When a man and woman were espoused, they were already completely committed to each other. They could not even call off the wedding without a formal divorce.
Joseph had the opportunity to disgrace Mary as he probably felt she had disgraced him. If he had taken her before the priest, she would have been stoned to death according to the law. But, because he was honorable, he honored Mary and decided to keep this situation private. Before Joseph heard from God, he displayed a godly character.
Then, the dream. Can you imagine the realization of years of prophecy being fulfilled before your eyes and at the care of your hands? Joseph obeyed God, loved Mary, and raised God’s son, Jesus, to have a godly character, too. What an awesome responsibility! What an awesome privilege!
Will you be ready to do the right thing even when adversity comes? God is looking for people who trust Him and make “just” decisions. Let God use you.
I encourage you to read the Christmas story for yourself this season. Be reminded of the precious gift God gave us all through His son, Jesus Christ. What a joy it is to celebrate His birth! What does the birth of Jesus mean to you?
Matthew 1:18-23
Luke 1:5-80
Luke 2:1-39
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