Have courage.

12-22-21
As we prepare for celebrating our Lord's birth, today's devotion is based on Matthew 1:24-25, "When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife but knew her not until she had given birth to a Son. And he called His Name Jesus."
What courage Joseph had to go forward with the marriage, bringing his wife home—all based on a dream. Mary and Zechariah both benefited from a face-to-face meeting with a real live angel. Joseph? Well, like his Old Testament namesake, he got his instructions in dreams.
God speaks to us today through the Bible, prayer, and consultation with wise Christian friends. That can cause us to question God's directions. What if I get it wrong? What if I think God wants me to do something, and later on, it turns into a disaster? We fret and worry as if knowing God's will were some test.
But that is not the case. Because of our Savior Jesus, we are now God's beloved children. God is certainly not looking to set traps for us. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we will make the best decisions we can; and if things go badly (and face it, don't they often?), we will know that God is still with us, and we are still His children. After all, Jesus is Immanuel; God with us.
Please pray with me; Lord, You know that I can get confused easily. Guide me through your Word, and help me trust in You when I doubt whether or not I am doing your will.  In Jesus' blessed name, I pray. Amen.