Difficulties

 December 19, 2024

You know the story:

“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” —Luke 2:1-7 

Again, this is more than I usually like to give for our meditations, but once more, there is a reason for it. Joseph was living in Nazareth, but the prophet Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be from Bethlehem. So at just the right time, God arranged for the emperor, the most powerful man in the world, to order a census requiring everyone to go to their ancestral city to be registered.

It was a great inconvenience for Mary. We like to think God will move heaven and earth to accomplish his plans just like he did here, but we must remember that our convenience is one of those earthly things that may get moved. 

So when difficulties come your way, don’t assume they are an attack from the Enemy. They may be God doing what he does—moving heaven and earth…and you…to fulfill his plans.