Reflecting on Joseph’s Character

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12/24/25 Adrian Vanderwoude-YBL Financial Advisor

Joseph, Mary’s husband, is an example of someone in the grand story of Jesus’ birth who was quiet, steady, and a faithful man. God used a gentle, humble man to bring about His will. The Bible does not provide a lot of detail about Joseph, however, by his actions we can observe that he was a man of virtuous character. What are some of these virtues that Joseph portrays?  

  • Righteous Man- We are told that Joseph was a true believer in God (Matt 1:19). 
  • Merciful- He could have had Mary stoned as her pregnancy was “evidence of adultery” (Matt 1:19). 
  • Gracious- He could have obtained a divorce, but he remained married to Mary (Matt 1:19). 
  • Obedient- He listened to God’s angel and submitted to the Lord’s will (Matt 1:20-21). 
  • Humble- People would have believed Joseph to be the cause of Mary’s pregnancy since he still took her to be his wife. Though likely dealing with ridicule and shame from others, Joseph humbled himself in obedience to the Lord (Matthew 1:24) 
  • Self-Controlled- He was married to Mary but did not sleep with her until after Jesus was born (Matt 1:25). 
  • Provider- Jospeh provided for his family through his vocation as a carpenter. 
  • Protective- He sought his family’s safety by moving them to Egypt in obedience to what the Lord’s angel had declared (Matt. 2:14-15) 
  • Conscientious and Submissive- Jospeh was conscientious and submissive before government authorities when a census was declared (Luke 2:1-5). 
  • Careful- Joseph displayed deep care to keep God’s law (Luke 2:21-22, 39, 41). 

 Taking time to dwell on the admirable qualities of Joseph can be both encouraging and inspiring. How can you display these virtues this Christmas season?