In Matthew 1:18-25 we find the story of Joseph being faced with the problem of what seemed to be an unfaithful fiancée.   The love of his life, sweet little Mary, had slept with someone and been knocked up!  Like us, he probably wondered how this could happen…how could it happen to him?

Then, just like we do when faced with trials, Joseph tried to figure a way out.   As he was a Jew, we can be fairly sure that Joseph prayed about the situation.  Again, that’s common behavior; when things get rough our prayer lives improve.

What’s uncommon is what happened next:  An angel spoke to Joseph in a dream and Joseph listened.  The way God spoke to Joseph is uncommon, but God speaking to people is not uncommon.  He speaks to us through His Word, other people, circumstances and His Spirit all the time.  What was most uncommon about Joseph is that he listened.  Joseph had faith in what God told him and he acted accordingly.  Too often we look to our own solutions and act on human whim rather than God’s Word.

People probably thought Joseph was nuts.  No doubt they mumbled things behind his back like, “I can’t believe he’s marrying that little tramp”.   Yet this didn’t stop Joseph from being full of faith.

Whatever trials we are currently facing today, we can be sure that God is speaking to us through them.  So what is He saying to you?  Will you listen?  Will others brand you insane if you listen?  Will you obey what you hear Him say in spite of public opinion?  Will you be full of faith?

Lord, help each of us to hear you in our trials.  Help us to listen and obey.  May we all have faith like Joseph!  A-men