When Heaven Came Down - December 10 Devotion

When Obedience Costs Something

Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:24–25 (CSB)
“When Joseph woke up, he did as the Lord’s angel had commanded him. He married her but did not have sexual relations with her until she gave birth to a son. And he named him Jesus.”

Devotional Thought:
Joseph could’ve rolled over and gone back to sleep.
After all, it was just a dream, right?
But he didn’t.
When he woke up, he obeyed.
Even though people would talk.
Even though it would cost him his reputation.
Even though it would mean raising a child that wasn’t biologically his.
Joseph chose to trust God’s word over public opinion.
That’s not easy.
Obedience rarely is.
It cost Joseph comfort.
It cost him a quiet, easy life.
But it gave him something far greater: a front-row seat to the story of salvation.
When God asks us to obey, we often want the outcome first:
“What will people think?”
“Will I still be okay?”
“Is there another option?”
But faith says:
“If God said it, I will do it.”
Joseph didn’t ask for applause.
He didn’t wait for a guarantee.
He just obeyed—and trusted God to handle the rest.
And that’s what made him part of the greatest story ever told.

Let’s Talk About It:
What do you think was the hardest part of obedience for Joseph?
Why is obedience sometimes scary for us?
Have you ever obeyed God even when it cost you something?

Tradition Tie-In: The Silent Role
Tonight, take a moment to sit together in silence for one full minute. Let it be a moment to reflect on how Joseph didn’t say a single word in Scripture—but his actions spoke volumes.
Afterward, talk about this question:
“How can we obey God quietly, even if no one else sees?”
Place a small wooden nail, hammer, or carpenter’s tool under the tree or near your nativity scene to represent Joseph’s faithfulness.

Closing Prayer:
God,
Thank You for Joseph’s example of costly obedience.
Help us to say “yes” to You, even when it’s hard or uncomfortable.
Give us the courage to follow Your voice, even when the world disagrees.
Make our hearts ready to obey You with faith like Joseph’s.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.