Advent: Hope in the Waiting by Wycliffe Bible TranslatorsSample

Joseph’s Courage in the Face of Fear

Joseph’s world was anything but calm in the months leading up to Jesus’ birth. Faced with an unexpected and uncertain future, he had a choice: Would he give in to fear or trust God’s plan?

At first, Joseph decided to quietly end his engagement to Mary, hoping to spare her from public shame. But in a dream, an angel spoke to him and confirmed that Mary’s pregnancy was from God: “Joseph, son of David ... do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20b-c, NLT).

Joseph responded with obedience. He set aside fear, trusted God’s word and took Mary as his wife. His response shows that your choices can shape your heart and life. Rather than reacting with anger, Joseph chose compassion. He risked his reputation and responded with courage. And he believed God’s promise, even when it seemed impossible.

This story is a reminder that hope doesn’t come from having all the answers. It comes from trusting the One who does. Joseph’s obedience didn’t remove all the unknowns from his life, but it did anchor him in God’s faithfulness. In the same way, when you surrender your fears to God, you step into a hope that’s stronger than your circumstances.

Trusting God with your present will give you hope for the future. This Advent season, what might God be asking you to surrender to Him? What fears or obstacles could be keeping you from going “all in” in your walk with Him? When you believe that God is faithful, your waiting can turn into worship and your hope can lead to action.

Reflection:

• What emotions do you think Mary and Joseph felt when God revealed His plan to them? Consider their mix of fear, awe and trust. How do Joseph’s responses encourage or challenge you in your circumstances?
• Joseph risked his reputation to follow God’s direction. How can his obedience inspire you to act boldly, even when it’s difficult?
• How can holding onto God’s promises and meditating on His character give you assurance in uncertainty?
• How has God been faithful in your past? What does it look like to pause and recognize His faithfulness in your daily life?