S) "22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Then after being warned by God in a dream, he left for the regions of Galilee, 23 and came and lived in a city called Nazareth. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophets: 'He shall be called a Nazarene.'"
Matthew 2:22-23 (NASB)
O) What a mighty man of God, Joseph was! This is at least the third time that Scripture tells us Joseph heard from God in his dreams. First, he was told not to break his engagement to Mary. Second, he was warned about Herod seeking the life of Jesus. Third, here he was warned and he left for Nazareth. In the end, all of this served the purposes of God, to fulfill holy prophecies about Jesus Christ. In these moments, though, I don't think Joseph was necessarily even aware of that. The reason I focused on the verses above (instead of the verses about fleeing to Egypt), was because of the preface, "he was afraid to go there." Joseph was afraid to return to Judea, then he was warned by God. It seems Joseph was simply trying to steward the wonderful life of Jesus. He was simply trying to protect the boy God had entrusted to him.
A) Sometimes fear can be a powerful tool in the hands of the Almighty God. When I am afraid, what will my response be? Joseph had heard from God in his dreams on two occasions, before fearing his return to Judea. It seems likely to me, that Joseph must have been doing some praying, when he was leaving Egypt. He knew God had sovereignly given him his wife and step-Son. He knew God had sovereignly protected them from Herod, and kept them in Egypt. So, when fear struck again, where else would he turn, except to seek the LORD and hope He would speak to him again in a dream. I have no doubt that God can still speak through dreams. I think He may do it less than some would claim, but more than others will recognize. On the other hand, I surely have the Holy Bible to give me revelation and direction. When fear grips my heart, I must return to the source that I know shows me the will and character of the Author of my salvation. However else I might sense that the Holy Spirit is leading me, Scripture is the final authority. I may have had God speak to me in dreams, but I know He has spoken to me through His Word. To His Word I will return, when fear grips me.
P) Father, You are omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent. You will be glorified for the salvation You have authored. Fear sometimes still grips me, as a mortal with obscured vision. I only pray that when I am afraid, that I am drawn back to Your holy words, which I know to be pure truth. Open my eyes and ears, to learn from Your words. Guide me by them, through the Holy Spirit. Let Your will be done. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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