So Joseph got up and left for Egypt with the baby and the baby's mother. They left during the night. Joseph stayed in Egypt until Herod died. This happened to make clear the full meaning of what the Lord said through the prophet. The Lord said, "I called my son to come out of Egypt."
— Matthew 2:14-15 NLT
Key Thought
God moves in mysterious ways and uses common people to do his work and accomplish his will. The connection between an Old Testament reference and its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus depends upon Joseph's doing what God asked him to do in the middle of the night. While we know so very little about Joseph, one thing we do know: when God asked him to do the unthinkable, the crazy, and the unheard of, he didn't argue or hesitate; he obeyed. Not once, but repeatedly. I don't know about you, but I hope that I can have the courage and faith to be that bold and obedient!
Today's Prayer
Give me courage and faith, O LORD, to trust and obey as Joseph did. Humble me gently, dear Father, until my pride gives way to one truth: "No matter what God asks, this one always obeys." Father, I make this request in the name of Jesus, who lived and died to be obedient to your will and save me from my sins. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
- John 14:15-23
- Titus 3:3-5
- 1 Samuel 15:22-23
About This Devotional
What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.
What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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