Matthew 1:20–21 (NASB)
“But when he had thought this over, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a Son; and you shall name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.’”
Devotional Thought:
Joseph faced shame, fear, and confusion, yet God’s word to him was clear: do not be afraid. Gratitude springs when we see that Jesus’ birth was not only miraculous but purposeful—He came to save His people from their sins.
Three Comments:
- Gratitude steadies our hearts when fear tempts us to doubt God’s plan.
- The name Jesus anchors us in His saving work.
- God calls us to trust even when circumstances defy explanation.
Poem – “Do Not Be Afraid”
Joseph stood at the edge of fear,
But heaven spoke his name,
The Spirit’s work was sure,
The promise was certain,
The Savior would come.
The name was spoken again,
Jesus, the Lord who saves,
Sin would not have the last word,
Mercy would write the story,
Salvation would be born.
Gratitude rises in trust,
Fear bends to faith,
The plan of God is firm,
The purpose of Christ is clear,
He came to save.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Joseph’s obedience when fear could have led him away. Thank You that Jesus came with the clear mission to save His people from their sins.
Help me to trust Your purposes when they are beyond my understanding. May gratitude replace fear in my heart, and may I rest in the saving name of Jesus.
