Throughout this sermon series we are looking at characters that are typically overlooked in the Christmas story, and what their stories can teach us. This week, we’re looking at Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph. Joseph was open to God’s leading, even in the midst of an extremely stressful situation. The Christmas season can be stressful for us as well. Yet, it is important that we remain open to God’s leading, just as Joseph was. By taking a look at this portion of God’s Word, we can learn how to be open to God’s leading, just like Joseph was.

1. love others well and intentionally

Matt. 1:19-20, 5:43-48, 22:35-40, John 13:34, 1 John 4:11, 19-21

2. Don’t ignor God’s leading

Matt. 1:20-21, Prov. 3:5-6, Ps. 32:8, John 16:13, James 1:5

3. Live by God's Word

Matt. 1:22-23, Ps. 119:105, Josh. 1:8, Matt. 4:4, Heb. 4:12, Rom. 15:4

4. Give it all you’ve got

Matt. 1:24-25, Gal. 6:9, Eph. 2:10, 2 Cor. 9:6-8

Reflection Questions

1. Have you ever studied this part of God’s Word before? Did anything stand out? Did anything from Joseph’s story surprise you?

2. Joseph was open to God’s leading in this passage. Of the 4 things that we pointed out about Joseph, which one(s) do you do well, and which one(s) do you need to work on?

3. Do some reflecting. How well do you feel like you are open to God’s leading in your life during stressful and busy times?

4. Looking at your answer from question #3, what practical steps do you need to improve how open you are to God’s leading?

5. What is your biggest take away from this message? What did God teach you? Do you feel led to put anything into action? If so, what, and what practical step(s) do you need to take to be obedient to what God has led you to do? Who can keep you accountable to accomplishing this?