One spiritual guy !

We don’t have much in Scripture about Joseph, the husband of Mary, but what we do have points to the fact that he was a godly man.  As the New Testament begins we see some info about him that challenges and encourages us to the same spirituality. For instance, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.” (Mt.1:18).  He was “espoused” or in the betrothal stage of their marriage and his association with such a wonderful young women herself speaks volumes as to his character.   We must pick our friends carefully and be the kind of friend to others that brings glory to God.

Next, “Then Joseph, her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.” (vs.19).   The whole basis for Joseph’s spirituality is encapsulated in the word “just” in this verse. It is the Greek word dikaios and speaks of one who is right before God. He had accepted the Lord as his Savior and from there he began a way of life that showed in the actions recorded of him by God in the Bible.  Are you sure you’re saved? And if so, are you living like you are, truly?  Last night I met a woman who had parked beside me in a store parking lot, her bumper sticker caught my eye. It said, “Jesus loves you, but I’m His favorite !”   After a few chuckles I joked back and told her I was a pastor and she was on shaky ground theologically as funny as the sticker was.  She responded back in jest, “I’m always on shaky ground with Him !”  But on a serious note, we needn’t be because of His grace and love for us.  The simplicity of staying right with God is as elementary as becoming so at salvation. Confession of sin is a must, feeding the spirit not the flesh is critical, but when dikaios is God’s assessment of us, all is well and growth can happen in US too !

I find it also interesting that because Joseph was a just man that his actions upon finding out Mary was pregnant are both understandable and commendable.  True, he jumped to conclusions as to her morality but can you blame him really, not many of us in his position would consider the possibility of such a miraculous birth !   But rather than lash out hurtfully, he seeks to protect her even in his own hurt. What a spiritual guy !!   When you perceive an injustice has occurred against you, what is your typical response?  Show some diakaios !  Its in you once saved, you just need to let it work !!