Advent Series: The Decree

“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.” — Luke 2:1, KJV

A  decree is a law (whether civil, ceremonial, or ecclesiastical)  — an ordinance.

Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor, gave orders for the empire to be taxed. But, for this taxation to occur, a census had to be taken. And to get an accurate census, everyone had to return to the town where their lineage was recorded.

You see, Joseph and Mary did not live in Bethlehem, but they were descendants of King David, and King David’s citizenship was in Bethlehem.

So, Jesus’s birth was a matter of timing and positioning — God’s perfect timing and God’s perfect plan. God divinely orchestrated the appointment and dealings surrounding His Son’s birth.

As with the birth of Jesus, God knows the plans and purposes He has set over our lives. He is the originator and creator of the plan. Just as He told Israel, God is saying to us today, “ I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  (Jeremiah 29:11)

Understand that before you were formed in the womb, a decree was sent out about your life. God proclaimed, to the universe, who you would be and His purpose for your life.

As we journey through time, what God ordained and predestined has an opportunity to manifest the thoughts He has towards us.

For, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every matter under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NASB)

The Father’s word cannot return to Him annulled — void, canceled or negated. But it shall accomplish what He pleases, and it will prosper in the thing for which He sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)

The Lesson:

There is an appointed time for every plan and purpose of God.

The Reflection:

• Think back, as far back as you can remember, and now to this present time. Can you trace the plan of God working in your life?

The Inspiration:

Remember that nothing on earth or under the earth can abort the plans and purposes God has ordained for your life because God is watching over His word to see that it is fulfilled. (Jeremiah 1:12b)

Join me next week for Coffee on The Couch.