Listen to the sermon while filling out the blanks.

Introduction

Not everyone will be merry this Christmas. There are many reasons for this. It has been said that seasons like this amplify whatever feelings we might have at the moment. If we are sad or anxious, we will experience more of it during the Christmas season. If we are generally happy, we will probably experience a more joyful Christmas. The Christmas story in the Bible features several characters. So far we’ve studied three of them in our series this month. Now, we are going to study one last character: Joseph. He probably was not that happy when he first found out that Mary was pregnant. He and Mary, although they were engaged, have not yet come together as husband and wife. The legal, social, and religious implications of her pregnancy probably caused much sadness and anxiety in Joseph. He was confused, at the very least, and he needed guidance from the Lord. Let’s trace the story in Matthew 1:18-25 and see how the Lord delivered him.

Five Movements

1. The bad news: Joseph finds out that Mary is pregnant. (v. 18)

No one wants to hear bad news. But life happens. Something or someone causes us pain, and we’re saddened, and hurt, not knowing why. We feel we don’t deserve this or it’s unfair. The Christmas season can make this feeling even worse.

2. The initial response: Joseph tries to solve the problem with his wisdom. (v. 19)

No one wants to remain sad or anxious. We want to resolve those feelings as soon as possible. So we look for ways to get rid of them. But they don’t go away. They stay and our misery continues. Most people may not even know what’s going on in our hearts.

3. Spiritual guidance is received: Joseph is informed by an angel about Jesus. (vv. 20-21)

The Lord knows when we are experiencing confusion and desolation. He takes the initiative to help us focus on the truth that can bring clarity to our situation. Jesus is the answer to all our questions, even though, sometimes, our doubts may still linger on.

4. Scripture is confirmed: God confirms His promise in the Old Testament. (vv. 22-23)

Our circumstances may be difficult, and it may be hard to predict, but the word of the Lord will stand forever. It is totally trustworthy. Our feelings do not determine the truth; the truth must guide our feelings. Trusting God’s word in times of confusion is the best option.

5. True righteousness is displayed: Joseph obeys by faith. (vv. 24-25)

We can’t wait until our negative feelings have disappeared before we trust and obey the Lord. God’s word is the anchor to our souls and we must go ahead and act based on His promises, even if we don’t understand everything.

Conclusion:

1. Turning Point: “When you’re sad or anxious, always trust in Jesus.”

2. You may not feel merry this Christmas. Perhaps, there are legitimate reasons to feel sad or anxious instead. But the good news of Christmas is that God, through Jesus, chose to enter into our human experience so that, through Him, we can find redemption.

3. Trust and obey the Lord despite your feelings. Like Joseph, move forward through life by faith.

Discussion:

1. Joseph initially responded to Mary’s pregnancy with his wisdom. How do we often attempt to solve our problems or cope with sadness and anxiety using our own understanding or strategies? What can we learn from Joseph’s initial response in handling unexpected situations or difficulties?

2. The angel brought clarity to Joseph’s confusion by revealing the truth about Jesus. How does seeking divine guidance impact our perspective when facing challenges or uncertainties? How can we encourage each other to seek God’s guidance in difficult times?

3. God confirmed His promise through Scripture, assuring Joseph of His faithfulness. How can we lean on God’s promises in the Bible during times of confusion or distress? Share a personal experience of how relying on God’s Word has brought clarity or peace in a challenging situation.

4. Joseph displayed righteousness by obeying God despite his feelings of confusion or anxiety. How can we cultivate a faith that leads us to obedience, even when our emotions might be telling us otherwise? Share an instance when choosing to trust God’s promises led to obedient action despite conflicting emotions.

5. The sermon concludes with the emphasis on trusting in Jesus during moments of sadness or anxiety. How can we practically apply this advice during the Christmas season or in daily life? What steps can we take to trust in Jesus and move forward in faith, even when faced with difficult emotions or circumstances?