And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Dear Ones: A Decree Went Out! Caesar Agustus was the supreme ruler of the Roman Empire. Yet we see the hand of God at work that caused him to take a census of the empire at God’s appointed time. Daniel 4:17 reveals to us, “This decision is by the decree of the watchers, And the sentence by the word of the holy ones, In order that the living may know That the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, Gives it to whomever He will, And sets over it the lowest of men.”
Augustus had no idea that taking a census at this specific time was orchestrated by God. His plan of salvation that was established before time existed required it: therefore, it had to be. When we study Roman history, we realize that the Caesars were an arrogant and corrupt bunch. They ruled with an iron fist and projected the mystique that they were gods. But the Most High God rules in the affairs of men and He used corrupt Augustus to accomplish His will and purposes.
Turning our eyes to the current world and national leaders of today, we see the same arrogant and prideful natures. But, like Augustus, they cannot thwart the plans of God from coming to pass. In fact, God will use them in such a way that they will think it is their idea to comply with God’s will.
Issue Your Own Decree
This gives us a perfect way to pray for leadership that seems to be running amok with corruption and pride. The Lord Jesus taught us in Matthew 6:10 to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.” Replace the “on earth” with your specific location or nation. Declare that the Lord God will even use the Caesar-like ones to accomplish His plans and purposes. Remember, it was prophesied that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem and the census timing had to be at the appointed time in God’s plan.
A decree went out from the Roman corrupt government for a census. God planned it from before time existed. The timing of Christ’s birth and its location had to conform to the prophetic word given hundreds of years before. Rejoice that this same God, your Father, has great plans for your life, your family, and your nation. Decree His will to be done in all your affairs. Do it without doubting. If He can bend Caesar to His will, He can accomplish great things for you today. I bless you in Jesus’ name.