Message of Obedience
Matthew 1:18-2:23

"Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." (1 Samuel 15:22)

Joseph, hand chosen by God to be the earthly father for Jesus, is an example of one who learned early to listen and obey. We read in the Gospel account that four times he was given a direct message from God, and each time he obeyed, fulfilling specific prophecies about the Messiah (Isaiah 7:14: Hosea 11:1).

Disobedience has been an issue for humankind since the Garden of Eden. Through willful defiance of God's directives, sin entered creation, and we have fought its hold on us ever since. Joseph understood the severity of choosing to disobey God, and he would not dare to risk it. As Joseph submitted his own will to the Lord, the promised Savior made His entrance into our world.

Obedience is always a test of our love, trust, and willingness to surrender "our rights." Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching" (John 14:3a). Since perfect obedience would never be attained by any of us, our King has stood in our place, surrendering His rights, trusting His Father's great redemption plan, and proving His limitless love for us.
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Joseph obeyed his heavenly Father who gave us our Savior. Jesus obeyed His heavenly Father and became our Savior on the cross.
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Haven Ministries ~~