While he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 1:20
The Bible warns that individuals can have the appearance of being godly, but when they are examined closely, they are far from God. The Pharisees were seen as the godliest of all the Jews. They prayed so that all could hear and they fasted so that all could see. They tithed and gave offering, but Jesus showed that their hearts were far from God.
While the Pharisees had an outward appearance of godliness, they were disobedient to the will of God by refusing to receive Jesus as the Messiah. Compare then with the carpenter from Nazareth named Joseph. When Mary told Joseph she was pregnant with Jesus, Scripture says that he was going to leave her. However, when the angel revealed to Joseph that this was true, he was obedient to the will of the Father. Joseph took Mary as his wife and helped raise Jesus. Because he chose to be obedient to the will of God, he was able to be an integral part in the "God Incarnate" theme of the Bible.
Is it your desire to be a godly person? If so, make obedience to the will of God your highest priority. Choose obedience to God over fame, fortune, popularity, or political correctness, and then watch how God will bless this in your life. As a pastor, I've often said that if I had one word to preach to those who are saved, it would be the word obedience. This is what God desires from us, because when we are obedient to Him, we reveal the truest form of godliness.
Father, I confess that there are times when I am disobedient to You and for this, I ask for Your forgiveness. My desire is to be obedient in everything You ask for me. Help me to be an example of true godliness for others to see. Help me live a life that is pleasing to You! Amen.
Shared by: What Are the Characteristics of a Godly Person? Marty Jacumin, Raleigh, NC