Transformed By Truth: "be Patient When It Gets Weird" Matthew 1:18-25 Series

Transformed by Truth: "Be Patient When It Gets Weird" Matthew 1:18-25 (NLT)

Introduction

Today, we are going to delve into a story from the Gospel of Matthew that teaches us about patience, trust, and obedience when life takes unexpected turns. Our focus will be on how Joseph reacted when he learned about Mary's pregnancy, and how he waited for God's guidance even when things got confusing.

Point 1: The Challenge of Unexpected News

Matthew 1:18-19 (NLT): "This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly."

Joseph found himself in a difficult situation. As a righteous man, he wanted to do the right thing. The Greek word for "righteous" is "d??a???" (dikaios), which implies being just and virtuous. Joseph faced a moral and social dilemma upon discovering Mary's pregnancy.

Joseph's initial reaction was to handle the situation discreetly to protect Mary from public shame. His actions reflected compassion and integrity, even though he didn't fully understand God's plan yet.

In our lives, we often receive unexpected news that challenges our understanding and plans. Like Joseph, we need to respond with grace and integrity, trusting that God has a greater purpose even if it is not immediately clear.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."

This passage encourages us to trust in God's wisdom rather than our own. When faced with confusion, we should lean on His understanding.

In times of uncertainty, seek God's guidance through prayer and scripture. Trust that He will lead you on the right path.

A.W. Tozer said, "God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which He must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves."

Point 2: Divine Intervention and Guidance

Matthew 1:20-21 (NLT): "As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. 'Joseph, son of David,' the angel said, 'do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.'"

God sent an angel to Joseph to provide clarity and reassurance. The angel's message revealed the divine nature of Mary's pregnancy and the significant role Joseph would play.

The Greek word for "considered" is "????µ????t??" (enthymethentos), indicating deep reflection. Joseph's contemplation opened the way for divine revelation. The angel addressed Joseph's fear and provided specific instructions, showing God's intimate involvement in their lives.

When we are faced with perplexing situations, we should be open to God's intervention and guidance. He may speak to us through His Word, through prayer, or through other believers.

Psalm 32:8 (NLT): "The Lord says, 'I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.'"

God promises to guide us and provide counsel. His oversight ensures we are never alone in our decisions.

Remain attentive to God's voice in your life. Be patient and wait for His direction, knowing He watches over you.

Think of a GPS system. When you make a wrong turn, it recalibrates to guide you back on track. Similarly, God's guidance helps us navigate through life's unexpected detours.

Point 3: Obedience to God's Plan

Matthew 1:24-25 (NLT): "When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named him Jesus."

Joseph's immediate obedience to God's command demonstrates his faith and trust. Despite the potential for social ridicule and misunderstanding, he followed through with God's plan.

Joseph's actions align with the Hebrew concept of "???" (shema), which means to hear and obey. His obedience was not passive but active, fulfilling God's instructions faithfully.

Obedience to God's will often requires courage and faith. We may not always understand His ways, but trust and obedience lead to fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

James 1:22 (NLT): "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves."

James emphasizes the importance of putting God's Word into action. Listening alone is insufficient without corresponding deeds.

Commit to living out God's Word in your daily life. Act on His instructions with faith, knowing that His plans are for your good.