Thinking with a Purpose

But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife; for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 1:20

While he thought on these things and knew not what to determine, God graciously directed him what to do, and made him easy. Those who would have direction from God must think on things themselves, and consult with themselves.

It is the thoughtful, not the unthinking, whom God will guide. When he was at a loss, and had carried the matter as far as he could in his own thoughts, then God came in with advice.

God's time to come in with instruction to his people is when they are nonplussed and at a stand. God's comforts most delight the soul in the multitude of its perplexed thoughts. When we are most quiet and composed we are in the best frame to receive the notices of the divine will.

The Spirit moves on calm waters. (Matthew Henry)

We are not puppets in which God pulls our strings; we are required to participate in our relationship with God. I've read this verse countless of times and never picked up on the phrase - But while he thought on these things - and made the connection that M.H. did concerning our responsibility when seeking God's direction.

Pulling Back the Curtain: I met with my adviser yesterday. Unless God deems otherwise, I'm going to start on my media degree this semester. I can relate with the AARP commercials in which they say, when I grow up.....(not that I'm AARP material) It's good to shake things up when you feel yourself getting to settled.