AWAKEN WHAT IS ASLEEP IN ME

SCRIPTURE: “But while he (Joseph) thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph, being raised from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.” – Matthew 1:20-25

Ever since God began His redemptive plan, the enemy has opposed it. Jesus was destined to save people from their sins (Matthew 18:21), and the gates of hell could not prevail against Him. Yet, various attempts to halt Jesus' crucifixion are documented in Scripture (Matthew 16:18).

One obstacle to overcome in the beginning was Joseph, Mary’s betrothed husband.  

“Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 1:19-20).

“Under Jewish law, Joseph and Mary were already married, and Joseph wanted to divorce Mary on the grounds of infidelity. A divorce would be necessary because they had already made a marriage covenant, even though they had not known each other physically. Joseph could have made the divorce a public matter, or he could have gone through a private ceremony before two witnesses. Being a gracious and just man, Joseph decided to keep it private.” [i]

Divorcing Mary wasn't a part of God's redemption plan. Joseph, fortunately, took the time to think before acting rashly. And “while Joseph thought on these things, behold the angel of the Lord (God’s messenger) appeared unto him in a dream, saying…”

I recently read a devotional by Oswald Chambers that used the word "awaken". We might believe we understand the effects of our choices, but we don't. God alone knows the future; before making a decision, we need to ask Him to "awaken that which is asleep in us." Joseph, a righteous man, was upright and obedient. He sought to make the proper choice. However, something within him required "awakening." Thankfully, because Joseph “thought on those things,” he allowed God to direct him.

This past year was one of "demands," forcing many quick choices. I completed some goals; however, I regret not pausing to reflect.  Whereas I don’t know the future, I know God does. I don’t have to fret since He promised to direct my steps. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way” (Psalms 37:23). All I have to do is pause and ask for directions before proceeding forward.

"Become more teachable" might be the best resolution as we begin a new year. I determined it should be mine.

What tasks are you planning to do today? Is there something that needs to be “awakened” before you act?

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!

Yes, it’s a busy season, but today let’s give ourselves an early Christmas gift and pause for a while.  

[i] The Nelson Study Bible, NKJV, Copyright © 1997 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., Matthew 1:19 study notes, page 1576