Joseph had a huge dilemma. Mary was pregnant before her marriage, and it was not his child. An illegitimate birth would bring great shame on her family and Joseph's. Although Mary had told him that she was carrying God's child, he really could not believe it – and he was about to make a bad decision to move her and the baby out of his life.

So God intervened in his confused thoughts. In a dream, Joseph was told exactly the same message as Mary had received. He was also commanded to stand by Mary and name the child, Jesus. By giving Joseph that responsibility, God showed the young man that it was His plan to involve Joseph as the human guardian of the Saviour of the world. Joseph now believed Mary and trusted God, and so he had to change his plans - choosing to look after Mary and her baby, because God had spoken.

When God wants to include us in what He wants to do, He tells us. It might not be clear at first, because God only gives us enough information to ensure that we know we cannot walk away, and that His plans are both good and safe. He often also shares His plans with someone else. That will confirm to us that the idea is really from God, and also gives us strength through the fellowship of shared convictions. So, if you are confused or unsure of what is the best thing to do, wait for the Lord to show you the next step and also, in some way, to confirm what you are to do.