Joseph paid a price for being the husband of Mary.  It was costly.  It shook the core of his manhood.  It tested his identity and character.

 

Now, you may be asking what are you talking about?  Follow with me for a moment Beloved.  Mary was pregnant.  Her first child would not be his.  That is a huge hit to a man’s identity.  His wife was no longer pure.  Add to the fact that after the marriage ceremony, there would be no physical relations for at least 9 months. He would have to overcome in his soul some very difficult feelings and facts. Add to this the social aspect.  Living in a small town there would be the gossip, the snide looks, the rejection in the man groups.  You get the idea.  It would be tough for him to get work.  It would be tough for him to hold a normal position within the town held by men.  Yet, no word is recorded from Joseph.  No word of the difficulties he faced.  All we are told is that He obeyed. 

 

Men, today in our society, it is difficult to get a good woman.  Like Joseph, we face many challenges that have never existed.  Most women are not pure anymore.  They come with baggage, problems, attitudes, perceptions.  We pay the price.  We wonder is it worth it anymore to even date a woman?  I cannot answer that question for you.  Yet, if God brings a woman into your life and you know that God did.  Stay the course.  It will be tough.  It cannot be helped today in this society.  Women make it very difficult (subconsciousness;y or consciously). 

 

Bring that woman before God, men.  Let HIM show you if she is the one.  Then HE will give you the strength to do what needs to be done as HE did with Joseph.  Think about it.