“But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 1:20).
Can’t you imagine what Joseph’s thoughts must have been? He had just discovered that his beloved fiancée Mary was pregnant. He knew that he was absolutely, positively not the father. He must have wondered who the father was. When could this have happened? How could she seem to be so devoted to him and yet be pregnant? How could she seem to be so committed to the God of Israel and then be carrying a baby that was not his? These thoughts and perhaps a dozen others flew through his mind. They were swirling in such frenzy that Joseph must have been plunged into near despair. Then the angel said, “Fear not.” How about you? Are you fearful? Everybody is at some time or another. Joseph’s fear was addressed as he began to understand God’s purpose and plan. He trusted the Lord for something he could not understand. He rested in God’s promise. The application to you and me is astonishing!
For today: Some folks need to fear God a whole lot more. Those who are walking with the Lord need to fear situations a whole lot less.