The God Who Cannot Be Thwarted

Scripture: Daniel 4:35 (KJV)

"None can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?"

Personal Reflection

King Nebuchadnezzar learned one of the greatest lessons any human being can ever learn: God does whatever He wills in heaven and on earth. After the Lord humbled the proud Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar confessed that no one can restrain God's hand or question His purposes. That confession remains just as true today.

Modern society celebrates human autonomy. People imagine they determine their own destinies, shape history through their own wisdom, and ultimately control the outcomes of life. Scripture repeatedly corrects this illusion. Every breath we take is sustained by God's providence. Every nation exists by His decree. Every event unfolds according to His eternal purpose. 

This truth should produce both humility and confidence. Humility, because we recognize our dependence upon the Lord for everything. Confidence, because we know our lives are not governed by chance, luck, or blind fate. They are governed by our heavenly Father.

Even when evil appears to prosper temporarily, God's sovereign plan is never endangered. He uses even the sinful actions of men to accomplish His holy purposes without Himself becoming the author of sin. Joseph understood this when he told his brothers, "Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good."

When circumstances seem chaotic, remember that heaven has never known confusion. God's purposes continue without interruption, and His kingdom cannot be shaken.

Contemplation

Have I been trusting more in human ability than in God's sovereign rule?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Watson wrote:

"God is too wise to err and too good to be unkind."

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for trusting in my own strength. Help me remember that You alone rule heaven and earth, and nothing can hinder Your perfect will. Amen.

Application

Surrender one burden you have been trying to control and consciously place it into God's sovereign hands.