And so it was…

Providence demonstrates that God plans and prepares in ways that we do not and cannot. It is a good thing that we are in the hand of God (Deut. 33:3).  If God is holding us, He is controlling the circumstances that touch our lives. The story of Christ’s birth is packed with providence. Sometimes it is almost camouflaged and therefore overlooked.  Luke 2:6 [KJV] says, “And so it was, that, while they [Mary & Joseph] were there [Bethlehem], the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.”  Did you catch the first phrase as an indicator of God’s providence? To say, “so it was” is man’s view of events. It almost sounds like fate. In reality, something that just is or just was on the surface is, in fact, carefully orchestrated by God. Even at times when people are doing wrong, God can use it for His glory. David praised God for handling life this way. Psalm 76:10 “Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.” This truth is best illustrated at the crucifixion of Christ. The same act was both a wicked response of people and a wonderful plan of God.  Peter explains this to the crowd in Jerusalem at the Feast of Pentecost. Acts 2:23 “Him [Jesus], being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain.”  As you reflect on how the details of Christ’s birth fell into place, remember that each act was divinely handled more strategically than the moves of a chess master. God always “worketh all things after the counsel of his own will” (Ephesians 5:11). That should be a comforting truth to you that helps you to walk by faith with greater ease.