Be UsablePrimjer

Today you will read the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew. It may seem insignificant but hang in there because even God inspires genealogies. Matthew traces Jesus' lineage through Joseph back to Solomon. You may not know that there was a curse placed on one of Solomon's sons named Jechonias (Jer. 22:24-30), which is why Jesus was born of a virgin, avoiding the linage of the curse.

Luke mentions Jesus as being the supposed son of Joseph who was the son of Heli, but it was actually Mary who was the daughter of Heli. This was done in other Old Testament instances like Numbers 27:1-11; 36:12 with Ruth 4:6. Mary's genealogy was also from the line of David, but through Nathan, a half brother of Solomon. Thus the lineage was preserved but the curse bypassed.

These genealogies show the infinite wisdom of God in fulfilling His promises despite the corruption of man. In fact these genealogies are full of murderers, adulterers, and every sort of pervert know to man, and yet these same people were used of God, not because of their actions but in spite of them. This means there is still hope for us.

God has never had anyone qualified working for Him yet and we won't be the first. The history of God's dealings with man reveal that He has always used less than perfect vessels. All we need is a willing and surrendered heart. Surrender your heart to the Lord today. Give him your yes.