Together - Daily DevotionalSample

Obedient Joseph

Reading: Matt.1:18-24

Key Verse: “When Joseph woke up he did what the angel of the Lord commanded him” v24

Today we begin a series of devotionals leading up to Christmas and beyond. One important concept throughout the Bible is not “doing our own thing” but of obedience to God and His Word. The original failing of mankind is portrayed in Genesis 3 when Adam and Eve deliberately chose to disobey God’s command not to eat of the tree of knowledge. However we might understand this story, its meaning is clear. We can either choose to follow God’s instructions or choose to think we know what is best for us and reject His directions. 

Although there were many other trees in the garden from which they could eat, Adam and Eve made a declaration of independence by disobeying God because they thought they would be better off ignoring Him.  Sin has been described as the suspicion that God is not good and does not have our best interests at heart. Contrast this with Joseph, who in the midst of confusing circumstances, “did what the ... Lord commanded him.”  Our relationship with God is based on grace, not law. Yet God has given us a spirit that delights to follow and obey His instructions. Even Jesus was obedient unto death (Phil.2:8).

Prayer: Lord, I choose to follow and obey You, trusting that You have my best interests at heart