1. Joseph's dilemma (18-19)

Joseph loved God and did his best to keep God's laws. He was engaged to Mary, a beautiful and pure woman. Though they were engaged, they honored God and each other by having no intimate relations before marriage. Then, Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant. He thought she had been unfaithful to him; he could not marry an unfaithful woman. He was angry and hurt, but he did not want to expose her to public disgrace. So he decided to break up quietly.

2. Immanuel Jesus (20-25)

God sent his angel to help Joseph. Mary's Son was God's Son. His name was Jesus, 'The Lord saves,' for he would save his people from their sins. This baby fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14. He would be born of a virgin. He would be Immanuel, 'God with us.' God was coming to dwell with sinners to save us from our sins. Joseph overcame his feelings and obeyed by faith. He took Mary home as his wife, but he had no union with her until after Jesus was born.

Application: Lord, teach me the obedient faith of Joseph. Thank you for Immanuel Jesus, my Savior.
One Word: Immanuel