Matthew 1:18-19, "This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly."
James 1:19-20, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
Have you ever received such shocking news that it set your world on edge - news that made no sense whatsoever, that was impossible to believe? If you have, it likely pales in comparison to the bomb Mary dropped on her fiancé, Joseph: "I'm still a virgin, but... I'm pregnant. God is the Father and I'm going to give birth to the Savior of the world!"
Can you imagine how nervous Mary felt working up the courage to tell Joseph? One can only wonder how that conversation went! But after the initial shock wore off, Joseph didn't lose his temper. He took the time to stop and listen to what she had to say. Today's reading said, "He had in mind to divorce her quietly." He could have exposed her to public shame that could have gotten her killed. But he kept his cool without reacting emotionally. He took time to consider the best option after the biggest curveball in history!
When life throws you a curveball, how do you respond? Do you fly off the handle or immediately start worrying - playing out every possible worst-case scenario? Do you respond emotionally, or do you stop and listen, taking the time to let the news set in before reacting? Just as Joseph was mindful of Mary, are you mindful of others in such situations?
You've probably heard the saying, "God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason." Next time you hear shocking news, be like Joseph. Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. It will work out for the best every time!
Apply James 1:19-20 to your life today and going forward. Write it down and place the verse where you will see it when needed.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for being a God of consistency and promise. Help me apply James' words to my life daily. Guide me to stop and listen before reacting out of emotion. In Jesus' name, Amen.