Sleep on it
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”
Matthew 1:20 NIV
Ever felt the need to react? And quickly? Often in a moment of frustration, when something (or someone!) has annoyed us, or if something feels urgent and pressing, we want to deal with it, fast.
I don’t know about you, but some of my worst decisions are ones I’ve made quickly. The message sent without thought, the words spoken in haste or that impulsive purchase of something I didn’t really need. When I’ve not taken the time to stop, reflect, pray or sleep on it!
Here in Matthew 1:20, we observe Joseph’s reaction to the news that his fiancée Mary was with child, and that child wasn’t his! Put yourself in his shoes, it’s easy to imagine how disorienting this would be. But he doesn’t react, he doesn’t storm out or start yelling. Before making any decisions, he considers, he sleeps! It is in this literal moment of rest that God speaks to him. Here God gave the revelation and wisdom Joseph needed to move forward and raise Jesus as his own.
I wonder, how much wisdom, revelation or clarity do I miss in my rush to get things done? How many poor choices, drama or hurt could be avoided if we all of us took the time to consider, pause and rest as Joseph did. Inviting wisdom and revelation for everyone of lives’ choices.
Psalm 63:6 says ‘On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.’
Invite God into your rest. Allow him to speak to you, provide wisdom and revelation on the decisions you make, big or small. So, the next time you’re faced with a challenge, when the way forward isn’t clear or if the pressures of life are demanding a response from you, like Joseph did – sleep on it! Rest and allow your Heavenly Father to speak give and you the peace and insight needed to do His will.
Ps. Nath
