We serve “a living and true God” (1 Thes. 1:9), the “only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see” (1 Tim. 6:15-16). Though unseen, He works in the affairs of man (Jn. 5:17), exercising sovereignty in all things to bring about His divine purpose as revealed through the holy prophets and apostles—“things into which angels long to look” (1 Pet. 1:12).
The providential working of God to fulfill His promises is strong evidence of the power of things unseen (2 Cor. 1:20). Often perceived or reflected upon only in hindsight or with the help of divine revelation, we believe “that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love [Him]” (Rom. 8:28).
The power of God to work behind the scenes to bring about His divine purpose is emphasized in the book of Daniel. As he revealed the mysterious dream of the Babylonian king, Daniel stressed both the wisdom and power of God, saying, “It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings…” (Daniel 2:21). Governing authorities are “established by God” (Rom. 13:1). They are similarly removed at His discretion.
God’s power to work in the affairs of man is also highlighted in the book of Esther. Because Mordecai understood the unchangeableness of God’s promises, he appealed to Esther to use her influence as queen to provide relief and deliverance for the Jews from an evil government official by the name of Haman. Strengthening his request, Mordecai appealed to the unseen power of God, telling Esther that, if she remained silent, God’s purpose would be carried out through other means. He goes on to say, “And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this” (Est. 4:14).
For these reasons and other reasons, we know that there is an unseen power working for us behind the scenes. Therefore, let us draw near to God; for, if He is for us, no one can effectively stand against us (Rm. 8:31).
Glen Elliott