Daily Readings (Page 193)

The verses tell of God’s call to Abraham to leave his country and “go to the land I will show you” (ie there was no clear destination). What went through Abraham’s mind at that point? Note that God also told him to build an altar (12:8). How would that have helped Abraham?

This passage tells us of one source of temptation (see I Jn:8a and the means to defeat the temptation in v8b).  What does 2 Cor 11:13f say about Satan’s talent for impersonation?

Look at the clear instructions Joseph was given.  What does this tell us about God’s purposes when it comes to working out His divine plan? See Mary’s response in Luke 1:38.  What do Joseph and Mary have in common?

Matthew 1:22 tells us “all this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the prophet..” Although Joseph and Mary were clearly shocked, all was going to plan from God’s perspective.  What does this tell us about God’s sovereign will?

The angel said “Joseph, do not be afraid to take Mary home…” What might Joseph been afraid of?  How was he assured?

Consider Joseph’s reaction – what would you have done under similar circumstances?  What made him reconsider his decision?

What do you think “found to be with child through the Holy Spirit” means?  What is Matthew’s purpose for using such a phrase?

How did you think Mary reacted when she discovered she was pregnant?  What might have gone through her mind?

Mary’s response was a total submission to serve God wholeheartedly.  Let’s learn to live in such ways that God’s word may be fulfilled through our obedience.

God’s continual assurance pointed Mary to the unfailing word of God.  Let’s learn to deepen our trust through His Word.