New: Plus articles on faith, family and the Bible. Read them →

Daily devotional · December 17

Joseph's Quiet Yes

“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged in marriage to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and was unwilling to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to divorce her quietly. But after he had pondered these things, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to embrace Mary as your wife, for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a Son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel” (which means, “God with us” ). When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and embraced Mary as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a Son. And he gave Him the name Jesus.”
Matthew 1:18-25 (BSB)Read the whole chapter →

Joseph faces a painful situation. His fiancée is expecting a child, and he knows it is not his. Matthew calls him righteous and kind: he plans to end the engagement quietly rather than shame her. Then God speaks in a dream and asks him to trust and to take Mary as his wife. Joseph does exactly that. Not a single word of his is recorded in the Gospels, yet his obedience shapes the story of Christmas. Some of the most important work in God's kingdom is done quietly, by people who are willing to protect, provide and stay. Today, think of the unseen faithfulness around you, perhaps a parent, a spouse, a teacher, a friend who quietly holds things together. Thank one of them specifically. And ask whether God is inviting you to do a hidden act of obedience that will not earn applause but will protect someone else's dignity.

Prayer

Lord, make me faithful in quiet ways. Help me protect and serve without needing credit. Amen.

All 366 devotionals