Mat 1:20 But 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 you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
In order to restrain the workings of passion, James cautions belivers by saying “19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (Jas 1:19 -20 (ESV)). There is wisdom in that. We take note that while Joseph felt betrayed, disappointed and destined to be humiliated, he patiently and wisely thought of how to address the situation in a manner that would minimize the impact on both his side and Mary’s as a righteous man. As he pondered on these things and knew not what to determine, God graciously directed him on what to do. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Pro 9:10)
To be swift to act without thinking can be fatal especially when emotions are on the driver’s seat rather than rational thinking. Those who would have direction from God must think on things themselves. It is the thoughtful, not the unthinking, whom God will guide and advice. “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” (Pro 9:9)