Human Reasoning versus Divine Communication for Success

Rev Enoch Thompson | January 2, 2023 | Matthew 1:18-25

KEY VERSE: Matt 1:20 (NIV)

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.

Our text Matt 1:18-25 narrates the circumstances of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ with reference to the relationship between Joseph and Mary. Joseph found himself in a difficult situation where the woman he was going to marry reported to have become pregnant because of an angelic message said to have come from God.

Joseph needed to take a decision to terminate his relationship with Mary. He could have exposed her to public shame and punishment but chose to put her away quietly because of his fear of God. That was sound human reasoning and a conclusion which in this matter put Joseph in a good light, as a good man.

After Joseph’s conclusion we are told that he received a DIVINE COMMUNICATION:

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 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." Matt 1:20-21(NIV)

The divine communication changed Joseph's decision on the matter and led to a Foster-Father for the infant Saviour born at Christmas. Consequently, Joseph became a hero that countless thousands have been named after.

As we move on into the year, we will face situations that demand one decision or another. Let us engage our God-given ability to reason and take decisions. But let us make a deliberate effort to ask God to speak to us.

Human reason aided by divine communication will lead our decisions to the place where we can only be resoundingly successful.

PRAY

Lord help me to deliberately communicate with you in taking decisions throughout this year

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!