Today’s exhortation – life study of Joseph
The bible doesn’t tell us much about Joseph, but we get an idea of he was from his actions and how he dealt with adversity. It’s not what we say that tells people about who we are, but our actions which speak louder than words do! God sent angel Gabriel to deliver messages to Zacharias the father of John the baptist and to Joseph. To Zacharias, Gabriel said: “Do not be afraid, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John … [He will] make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:13; Luke 1:17). Zacharias’ reaction was one of doubt so God made him mute till the child was born. I believe he was made mute to stop him talking himself out of the miracle. Our words are powerful and we can talk ourselves out of receiving God’s promises!
The bible says, “Life and death is in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21). “You shall decree a thing and it shall be established onto you.” (Job 22:28). On the contrary, Joseph’s reaction to the angel’s message was obedience and faith. He just get on with it. It appears that his strongest qualities were obedience and humility. He obeyed civil decrees, Old Testament laws, and angelic direction without questioning or doubt and so I believe that because he was willing to submit to every legitimate authority, God entrusted him with a significant leadership role. Before anyone can lead, he must learn to first serve!
Francis Hans-Jorie
