When Heaven Came Down - December 9 Devotion

When God Speaks in the Dark

Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:20–21 (CSB)
“But after he had considered these things, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying,
‘Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what has been conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”

Devotional Thought:
Joseph had just made the hardest decision of his life—then he went to sleep.
And in that sleep, God spoke.
Not with a thunderstorm. Not with a vision in the sky.
But through a dream.
God often speaks into our lives in the quiet, in the dark, and in the confusion.
The angel didn’t just clear things up—he gave Joseph a calling.
“Don’t be afraid… take Mary as your wife… name the child Jesus.”
Can you imagine the relief—and the responsibility?
Joseph now knew:
Mary hadn’t betrayed him.
God was doing something miraculous.
This child would save His people from their sins.
What Joseph needed wasn’t more details.
He needed courage to obey.
And maybe that’s what you and I need, too.
Sometimes we want God to explain everything.
But more often, He gives us just enough to take the next step.
Joseph obeyed because he trusted that God was in it—even when it didn’t make sense.
That’s what faith looks like:
Obeying in the dark… because you believe in the light.

Let’s Talk About It:
Why do you think God spoke to Joseph through a dream?
What would you have felt if you were in Joseph’s shoes?
Is there something in your life that you’re afraid to trust God with right now?

Cultural Tie-In: “The Star” Movie Scene
Watch a short clip from The Star (2017 animated film) where Joseph is scared and unsure, but still chooses to take Mary on the journey to Bethlehem.
Talk about how courage doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means trusting God anyway.

Closing Prayer:
Lord,
Thank You for meeting us in the quiet places—when we’re afraid, confused, or unsure.
Thank You for speaking truth over Joseph’s fear and giving him strength to obey.
Help us to listen when You speak.
Help us to trust You when we don’t understand.
Give us courage to follow You wherever You lead.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.