By Glenn Metts
Pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church, Seymour
Focal Passage: Isaiah 23:8-18
It is an incredibly humbling and comforting thought to know that our God reigns! In an unprecedented year of challenges for our nation, for our communities, schools, businesses, churches and our families, it gives believers comfort to know that our great and mighty God is in control. He is on His throne and He still oversees the affairs of man. It is a time where as God’s people, it is good to be reminded of God’s sovereignty, His holiness, His justice and grace.
As I studied Isaiah 23:8-18, I was reminded of God’s sovereignty. Charles Spurgeon said, “When you go through a trial, the sovereignty of God is the pillow upon which you lay your head.”
As we study the Scriptures and see the sovereignty and holiness of God, it should cause us to pause and be reminded of God’s proper place in our lives. As our nation is going through a very difficult season, we would do well to remember that God raised this nation up.
It is God that has blessed and sustained us as a nation. I couldn’t help but think that just as the prophet Isaiah prophesied God’s judgment on Tyre because they had become very wealthy and prideful, we too need to beware of turning our backs on the Lord and thinking we don’t need Him.
As I tell my church family all the time, that begins with me examining my own heart in God’s presence. It begins with us as a church family examining our hearts before the Lord. Do we not only recognize God’s holiness and sovereignty, but do we submit to His authority and lordship in our lives?
God’s Word is clear about the fact that our God reigns. I just started a sermon series that will take us through the book of Daniel. In Chapter 2 of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream and was very troubled by it.
Daniel, turned to the Lord to help him and his friends in a very dire situation. God answered Daniel’s prayers and gave him the dream along with its interpretation to answer King Nebuchadnezzar. When Daniel awakened, he broke out in praise to God. His words remind us of God’s sovereignty and His reign. Listen to Daniel’s words:
“Blessed be the name of God forever and ever,
For wisdom and might are His.
And He changes the times and the seasons;
He removes kings and raises up kings;
He gives wisdom to the wise
And knowledge to those who have understanding.
He reveals deep and secret things;
He knows what is in the darkness,
And light dwells with Him.”
— Daniel 2:20-22
God’s Word provides a timely reminder to us all. In all of the turmoil we are witnessing in our nation, let us remember that our God reigns. As God’s people, let us humble ourselves, seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways. Thank God for His grace and His help for those that will call to Him and remember that He alone is God.
He is worthy of our lives, our worship, and our obedience always!
