The rapidity with which things happen in our world and the quickness with which information is relayed to us is truly amazing. The fact that our world is in a constant state of change should help us realize our need to place our trust in things above. God is our trust and He is in control to work out all things for good to those who love Him (Rm. 8:28).
Is God really in control of world events? Yes. Is He responsible for the actions of sinful men? No. But, we can be assured that He does work providentially to bring about His ultimate purpose for mankind. How can we know such is the case? The Bible tells us so.
In the days of Daniel, when the wise men of the land were threatened with death unless they could both reveal the contents and interpret the meaning of the king’s dream, Daniel received a revelation from God and was able to save the lives of those advisors known as “wise men.” In thanking God for the revelation he had received, Daniel prayed, “Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, For wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings…” (Daniel 2:20–21). Notice that it is God who changes the times and the epochs. He removes and establishes kings. In other words, God is in control of human history.
Those in positions of authority have a sacred trust from the Lord. Romans 13:1 points out that “there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Paul goes on to say that those who resist authority are opposing the ordinance of God. The only time we are obliged to violate the law of the land is when obedience to that law places us in violation of God’s law. In such cases, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). Governing authorities are God’s servants for good, a responsibility they must take seriously. If they prove unfaithful to that trust, God will, in His appointed time, remove them from power. The rulers of the kingdoms of the world are accountable to the great King of the universe.
When things in this world seem to be spinning out of control, remember God’s overruling providence. As the psalmist said, “we will not fear, though the earth should change, and…the mountains slip into the heart of the sea” (Psa. 46:1-2). Place yourself in the hands of the living God. He is in control of the universe, why not give Him control of your life?
— Glen Elliott —