God Holds All Authority and Power -Jeremiah 31:35

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 31:35 (NIV)

“This is what the Lord says, he who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar—the Lord Almighty is his name…

Jeremiah 31:35 (MSG)

“God’s Message, from the God who lights up the day with sun and brightens the night with moon and stars, who whips the ocean into a billowy froth, whose name is God-of-the-Angel-Armies…”

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“Thus says the Lord, who gives the sun for light by day and the fixed order of the moon and of the stars for light by night, who stirs up the sea’s roaring billows or stills the waves when they roar; the Lord of hosts is His name…” -AMPLIFIED

“God introduces Himself with extreme descriptions of His incomparable power. He is the One who gives light, the planets and stars, rules over the storms and seas, and commands heavenly armies (LORD of hosts). This statement is clearly given remarkable seriousness.” ~David Guzik

 Adonai-Tzva’ot, the Lord of Hosts, has declared that one day, His children will truly know Him, and they will experience His whole and complete forgiveness. God’s Message to Israel:

“No longer will one teach his neighbor or his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they will all know me, from the least to the greatest of them”—this is the Lord’s declaration. “For I will forgive their iniquity and never again remember their sin.” -Jeremiah 31:34 (CSB)

And to put some umph behind this statement, the Lord, the Almighty, the Creator of all things, declares by whose authority these things will happen. Adonai makes this declaration of His authority:

“These are the words of the Eternal, the One who orders the sun to give light to the day, the One who directs the moon and the stars to light the night, the One who stirs up the sea so its waves churn and roar. The Eternal, Commander of heavenly armies, is His name.” -(VOICE)

Immediately we are informed that these words are the words of the Lord, the Eternal One. And His Message was this: “The Lord makes the sun shine in the day. And he makes the moon and stars shine at night. He stirs up the sea so that its waves crash on the shore. The Lord of heaven’s armies is his name.” -(ICB)

We find the Almighty declaring His authority and His power. He was letting Israel know that He, the Creator of all things, the Lord of Hosts, was able to fulfill every prophecy that He had declared. Nothing was impossible for Him. What He said He would do, He would do! He was and is still able to accomplish what He has decreed!

“The Lord who gives us sunlight in the daytime and the moon and stars to light the night, and who stirs the sea to make the roaring waves—his name is Lord Almighty—says this…” -(TLB)

“God will sooner blot out the sun and moon than cast away his people, or any one of them. They shall all be his people, and he shall be their God; he will preserve them, and he will keep his covenant with them forever and forever, blessed be his holy name, the name of Jehovah, the God of the covenant which cannot be broken!” ~Charles Spurgeon

 The question is, do we truly understand and grasp God’s authority and power? What does the Bible teach us about God’s authority and power?

• All authority and power belong to God: “The True God spoke this once, and twice I’ve heard: that You, the True God, hold all power…” -Psalm 62:11 (VOICE)

• The Lord has established His own throne, and He rules over everything: “The Eternal has established His throne up in the heavens. He rules over every seen and unseen realm and creature.” -Psalm 103:19 (VOICE)

• God does what He pleases: “He alone is one True God; who can alter Him? Whatever He desires within Himself, He does.” -Job 23:13 (VOICE)

• The Eternal is great and powerful: “Now I know this: the Eternal is great; His power is unmatched. Our Master is above any so-called god. He does whatever He pleases, in heaven, on earth, in the seas, and in all the ocean depths.” -Psalm 135:5-6 (VOICE)

• God establishes all earthly powers: “It is important that all of us submit to the authorities who have charge over us because God establishes all authority in heaven and on the earth.” -Romans 13:1 (VOICE)

• God can do everything and nothing can stop His plans from coming to pass: “I know You can do everything; nothing You do can be foiled or frustrated.” -Job 42:2 (VOICE)

• For God, nothing is impossible: “Our Lord is great. Nothing is impossible with His overwhelming power. He is loving, compassionate, and wise beyond all measure.” -Psalm 147:5 (VOICE)

“God’s omnipotence refers to His limitless power and authority. As the all-powerful Creator of the universe, God has complete control over every aspect of nature and can accomplish anything He desires (Jeremiah 32:17). God’s power has no boundaries or limitations, and He wields it perfectly according to His divine will.” ~Amanda Williams

My friend, have you questioned God’s authority and power? I think most of us, if we were honest with ourselves, sadly would say that we have. We have wondered where He was when we were experiencing troubles and pain. We have questioned His abilities and His plans for our lives. But I would remind you of this verse: “Matters not who says a thing will or won’t happen unless the Lord determines that it should.” -Lamentations 3:37 (VOICE) What God says will be, will be. He is the Supreme and Final Authority and Power on all things. Trust His plans for your life.

“God is the ultimate authority simply because He is “the LORD, and there is no other.” It is He who created everything, including mankind. God is the Father of mankind, and as such, He has authority over us.” ~Jeremy Ham

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, please forgive me for those times that I have questioned your authority and power. In those moments, I know I have failed to trust your plan for my life. I am sorry. You, the Creator of all things, the Omnipotent One, the Omniscient One, the Omnipresent One, the Omnibenevolent One, YOU ARE ABLE! I am reminded of something Paul wrote: “Now to the God who can do so many awe-inspiring things, immeasurable things, things greater than we ever could ask or imagine through the power at work in us, to Him be all glory in the church and in Jesus the Anointed from this generation to the next, forever and ever. Amen.” -Ephesians 3:20-21 (VOICE) When I forget, Lord, please, remind me that nothing is impossible for you. Help me to remember that you hold all authority and power, and YOU ARE ABLE! Thank you, Lord.

Dealing With Corrupt Leadership- Ecclesiastes 8:9-10

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Ecclesiastes 8:9-10(NIV)
All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt. Then too, I saw the wicked buried—those who used to come and go from the holy place and receive praise in the city where they did this. This too is meaningless.

Ecclesiastes 8:9-10 (MSG)
All this I observed as I tried my best to understand all that’s going on in this world. As long as men and women have the power to hurt each other, this is the way it is. One time I saw wicked men given a solemn burial in holy ground. When the people returned to the city, they delivered flowery eulogies—and in the very place where wicked acts were done by those very men! More smoke. Indeed.
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“All this I have seen while applying my mind to every deed that is done under the sun. There is a time in which one man has exercised power over others to their detriment. So then, I have seen the wicked buried, those who used to go in and out of the holy place [but did not thereby escape their doom], and they are [praised in spite of their evil and] soon forgotten in the city where they did such things. This too is futility (vanity, emptiness).” -AMPLIFIED

“No man who is corrupt, no man who condones corruption in others, can possibly do his duty by the community.” ~Theodore Roosevelt

There are those in leadership who abuse their power, those in authority who lord it over those who are depending on them. The Teacher shares with us from personal experience. He personally saw a powerful wicked man, who had died, receive a very solemn, dignified burial. That wicked man was laid in holy ground, and the very people who he had mistreated and hurt walked away from this funeral service singing his praises. The Teacher wonders once again how such things can happen.

“Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.” ~Blaise Pascal

“I have witnessed all of this as I have focused my attention on all that is done under the sun: whenever one person oppresses another to lift himself up, it only hurts him in the end. I have witnessed the wicked buried with honor because during their lifetimes they would go in and out of the temple, and soon their crimes were forgotten in the very city where they committed them. This, too, is fleeting.” (VOICE)

The Teacher now gives us first hand testimony of what happens to the powerful leader who abuses his power. Remember, he has spent much time discussing the need to obey authority, to have discernment and the fact that death is inevitable for all man. The question today is, “What is the fate of the powerfully, wicked leader?” And we will find that they too have the same fate as the rest of mankind, death.

“I have thought deeply about all that goes on here in the world, where people have the power of injuring each other. I have seen wicked men buried, and as their friends returned from the cemetery, having forgotten all the dead man’s evil deeds, these men were praised in the very city where they had committed their many crimes! How odd!” -(TLB)

Instead of feeding and caring for the flock; this leader was fleecing the flock, using and abusing authority. The Teacher wondered why God did not take swift action and deal with this fool quickly. This is the underlying issue in his mind; where was the justice in this matter?

The book of Ezekiel records God’s reaction to wicked and unjust leadership. Ezekiel wrote down God’s issue with corrupt leadership and authority.

“‘Your leaders, the princes of Israel among you, compete in crime. You’re a community that’s insolent to parents, abusive to outsiders, oppressive against orphans and widows. You treat my holy things with contempt and desecrate my Sabbaths. You have people spreading lies and spilling blood, flocking to the hills to the sex shrines and fornicating unrestrained. Incest is common. Men force themselves on women regardless of whether they’re ready or willing. Sex is now anarchy. Anyone is fair game: neighbor, daughter-in-law, sister. Murder is for hire, usury is rampant, extortion is commonplace. ‘And you’ve forgotten me. Decree of God, the Master.'” – Ezekiel 22:6-12 (MSG)

“Yes, let God be the Judge. Your job today is to be a witness.” ~Warren Wiersbe

Jesus often taught His followers some difficult truths that affected their everyday lives. Dealing with unkind, wicked people was the subject of His lessons from time to time and during one of those learning times, the Sermon on the Mount, he taught them this lesson:

“You have been taught to love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you this: love your enemies. Pray for those who torment you and persecute you—in so doing, you become children of your Father in heaven. He, after all, loves each of us—good and evil, kind and cruel. He causes the sun to rise and shine on evil and good alike. He causes the rain to water the fields of the righteous and the fields of the sinner. It is easy to love those who love you—even a tax collector can love those who love him. And it is easy to greet your friends—even outsiders do that!” -Matthew 5:43-47 (VOICE)

“There will be a time of judgment in the future, but, until then, God graciously gives good things, even to those who hate Him. He gives the blessing of rain to the just and the unjust alike. Wicked people, people who mock Him and even deny His existence still get to enjoy good weather, good food, the love of family, and a great many other things.” ~Gotquestions.org

My friend, what we need to remember is that one day God will reward all mankind for their choices. The wicked will be repaid for misusing and abusing their authority; and the righteous will be rewarded for their obedience. Don’t waste your time worrying about the “why” God does not deal with the wicked right now. Instead, pray for them and live a life of obedience and love. Trust that God will deal with the wicked in His time and in His way.

“If you take care of yourself and walk with integrity, you may be confident that God will deal with those who sin against you. Above all, don’t give birth to sin yourself; rather, pray for those who persecute you. God will one day turn your persecution into praise.” ~Warren Wiersbe

My Prayer:
Lord God, help me to love those who are unjust and unlovely in spirit. It is so easy to revert to an angry, hateful, and rebellion spirit; and I know that you do not want me to be that kind of person. Help me to forgive those who use and abuse me and others; and help me to learn to see them with your eyes. They are in need of a Savior, just as I was. They need your forgiveness, just as I did. Remind me to pray for those in authority over me, including those who have misused their authority.

Our Need for Discernment -Ecclesiastes 8:4-6

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Ecclesiastes 8:4-6 (NIV)
Since a king’s word is supreme, who can say to him, “What are you doing?”
Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter, though a person may be weighed down by misery.

Ecclesiastes 8:4-6 (MSG)
The king has the last word. Who dares say to him, “What are you doing?” Carrying out orders won’t hurt you a bit; the wise person obeys promptly and accurately. Yes, there’s a right time and way for everything, even though, unfortunately, we miss it for the most part.
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“For the word of a king is authoritative and powerful, and who will say to him, “What are you doing?” Whoever keeps and observes a royal command will experience neither trouble nor misery; for a wise heart will know the proper time and [appropriate] procedure. For there is a proper time and [appropriate] procedure for every delight, though mankind’s misery and trouble lies heavily upon him [who rebels against the king].” -AMPLIFIED

“The word discern and its derivatives are translations of the Greek word anakrino in the New Testament. It means “to distinguish, to separate out by diligent search, to examine.” Discernment is the ability to properly discriminate or make determinations.” ~GotQuestions.org

To have discernment is to have insight, understanding or good judgement. It enables someone to grasp the truth and make proper judgement calls. Discernment is a by-product of godly wisdom, a favorite topic of the Teacher.

“The first point of wisdom is to discern that which is false; the second, to know that which is true.” ~Lactantius

“Since the king has the power to enforce his word, who dares ask him, “What are you doing?” Whoever does what the king commands will stay out of trouble, and the wise heart will figure out the proper time and proper way to proceed. Yes, there is a time and a way to deal with every situation, even when a person’s troubles are on the rise.” -(VOICE)

The Teacher continues his discourse on the topic of obeying those in authority, especially the king. He focuses on having discernment in when and how to approach those in authority when and if you have an issue arise that needs to be brought to the attention of those in higher authority. He basically tells us that the wise understand that there is a proper way of going about doing things. A reminder of something that he taught us back in chapter 3, there is a time and a season for everything.

“The king’s command is backed by great power, and no one can withstand it or question it. Those who obey him will not be punished. The wise man will find a time and a way to do what he says. Yes, there is a time and a way for everything, though man’s trouble lies heavy upon him; for how can he avoid what he doesn’t know is going to happen?” -(TLB)

“Discernment is not a matter of simply telling the difference between right and wrong; rather it is telling the difference between right and almost right.” ~Charles Spurgeon

Solomon, when he went up to Gibeon to worship the Lord, made this request of the Lord:

“Please give Your servant a listening heart for judging Your people and for knowing the difference between what is good and what is evil. Who is capable of judging Your chosen ones, a great people?” -1 Kings 3:9 (VOICE)

“Here’s what I want: Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil. For who on their own is capable of leading your glorious people?” -1 Kings 3:9 (MSG)

If the king saw the need for godly discernment to rule over God’s people, do you not think that we too are in need of discernment in our own daily lives? Do we not need understanding and good judgement to know what is true and to make wise choices?

Paul, in his letter to the church in Philippi, wrote that he was praying for them to grow in spiritual knowledge and insight, so they could see clearly the difference between right and wrong. That would take discernment. He wrote to them:

“And this I pray, that your love may abound more and more [displaying itself in greater depth] in real knowledge and in practical insight, so that you may learn to recognize and treasure what is excellent [identifying the best, and distinguishing moral differences], and that you may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ [actually living lives that lead others away from sin]; filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God [so that His glory may be both revealed and recognized].” -Philippians 1:9-11 (AMP)

“A tender conscience is an inestimable blessing; that is, a conscience not only quick to discern what is evil, but instantly to shun it as the eyelid closes itself against the mote.” ~C.N. Douglas

So, how do we go about learning and/or acquiring discernment? As was previously stated, discernment is a by-product of wisdom. And it has been mentioned time and time again in this study of Ecclesiastics, if we desire more wisdom than we need to ask God for it. I remind you too, that the Word of God, the Bible is full of wisdom that will teach us discernment. If you want to learn discernment then study the Word. The writer of Hebrews reminds us of this Truth:

“For whatever God says to us is full of living power: it is sharper than the sharpest dagger, cutting swift and deep into our innermost thoughts and desires with all their parts, exposing us for what we really are. He knows about everyone, everywhere. Everything about us is bare and wide open to the all-seeing eyes of our living God; nothing can be hidden from him to whom we must explain all that we have done.” -Hebrews 4:12-13 (TLB)

“The Holy Spirit will prompt us in the right direction as we learn to hear His voice and respond in obedience.” ~Crystal McDowell

My friend, we all need discernment, the ability to know right from wrong and then the wisdom to do it. We all need help in knowing what the Truth is and the ability to act upon it. Ask God today to not only give you wisdom, but discernment as well.

“Dear friend, guard Clear Thinking and Common Sense with your life; don’t for a minute lose sight of them. They’ll keep your soul alive and well, they’ll keep you fit and attractive. You’ll travel safely, you’ll neither tire nor trip. You’ll take afternoon naps without a worry, you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep. No need to panic over alarms or surprises, or predictions that doomsday’s just around the corner, because God will be right there with you; he’ll keep you safe and sound.”                                            ~Solomon (Proverbs 3:21-26 MSG)

My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I ask that you will give me the ability to discern right from wrong, the truth from the lie. May my heart and mind be in tune with your Holy Spirit so that I will be obedient to His prompting. Fill me with a hunger for more and more of your Holy Word that I may not only learn of your ways, but obediently follow them. Thank you, Lord.

10 Traits of a Good Leader – Proverbs 29:2

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Proverbs 29:2 (NIV)
When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Proverbs 29:2 (MSG)
When good people run things, everyone is glad, but when the ruler is bad, everyone groans.
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“When the righteous are in authority and become great, the people rejoice;
But when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh.” -AMPLIFIED

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” ~John Wesley

Once again we find Solomon addressing the role of leadership and the reaction the people have toward the righteous leader and the wicked leader.

“True leadership is servanthood. Put the interests of others at the center of your decisions.” ~Dave Ramsey

“When just leaders are in power, the citizens celebrate; but when evil people gain control, their joys become moans.” -(VOICE)

Solomon tells us that when good men/women are in leadership the people celebrate and rejoice. When the wicked are in control the people moan and groan. The difference between the two is in how they lead. Good leaders care about the welfare of those who are dependent on them. Bad leaders care only about themselves and no one else.

“With good men in authority, the people rejoice; but with the wicked in power, they groan.” -(TLB)

“Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.” ~John C. Maxwell

What does good, godly leadership look like? Let’s dig into the Word to find out what nuggets of treasure it has for us.

1.) A good leader has a servants spirit.

“But the greatest among you will be your servant. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be raised to honor.” -Matthew 23:11-12 (AMP)

2.) A good leader accepts God’s leadership.

“Commit your works to the Lord [submit and trust them to Him], and your plans will succeed [if you respond to His will and guidance].” -Proverbs 16:3 (AMP)

3.) A good leader thinks of others before self.

“For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to everyone of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service].” -Romans 12:3 (AMP)

4.) A good leader is just and fair.

“Open your mouth, judge righteously, and administer justice for the afflicted and needy.” -Proverbs 31:9 (AMP)

5.) A good leader listens and accepts counsel.

“Without consultation and wise advice, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they are established and succeed.” -Proverbs 15:22(AMP)

6.) A good leader seeks to help others.

“Carry one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the requirements of the law of Christ [that is, the law of Christian love]. For if anyone thinks he is something [special] when [in fact] he is nothing [special except in his own eyes], he deceives himself.” -Galatians 6:2-3 (AMP)

7.) A good leader is humble.

“Therefore if there is any encouragement and comfort in Christ [as there certainly is in abundance], if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship [that we share] in the Spirit, if [there is] any [great depth of] affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, having the same [a]love [toward one another], knit together in spirit, intent on one purpose [and living a life that reflects your faith and spreads the gospel—the good news regarding salvation through faith in Christ]. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit [through factional motives, or strife], but with [an attitude of] humility [being neither arrogant nor self-righteous], regard others as more important than yourselves. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” -Philippians 2:1-4 (AMP)

8.) A good leader must be a person of integrity.

“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than he who is crooked and two-faced though he is rich.” -Proverbs 28:6 (AMP)

9.) A good leader always does their best.

“Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth.” -2 Timothy 2:15 (AMP)

10.) A good leader is slow to anger and will forgive.

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor [perpetual animosity, resentment, strife, fault-finding] and slander be put away from you, along with every kind of malice [all spitefulness, verbal abuse, malevolence]. Be kind and helpful to one another, tender-hearted [compassionate, understanding], forgiving one another [readily and freely], just as God in Christ also forgave you.” -Ephesians 4:31-32 (AMP)

“The best leaders have a high Consideration Factor. They really care about their people” ~Brian Tracy

My friend, we all have places of leadership in our lives; whether in the home, the job, school, in church or elsewhere. We need to be using those places of leadership to let our lights shine for Jesus. Let us be demonstrating good, godly leadership skills and follow the example of Jesus Christ, our Servant King.

“The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly.” ~Jim Rohn

My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I ask that you give me a heart of a good leader. Help me to follow the example of godly leadership that Jesus set as an example for me. Remind me always to have a servant’s heart toward those who are in my care. Lord, please cultivate and grow those leadership skills in me that can be used for your glory. Help me always to remember that I am to be a light shining for you in a dark, dark World. May I emulate Jesus.

When the Wicked Rule, Pray -Proverbs 28:28

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Proverbs 28:28 (NIV)
When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive.

Proverbs 28:28 (MSG)
When corruption takes over, good people go underground, but when the crooks are thrown out, it’s safe to come out.
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“When the wicked rise [to power], men hide themselves; but when the wicked perish, the [consistently] righteous increase and become great.” -AMPLIFIED

“It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” ~George Washington

Once again we find Solomon’s focus on poor leadership; this is not the first time he has addressed this problem, nor will it be the last. Solomon teaches us:

“When the wicked have the upper hand, people go into hiding; but when they perish, the good folk will begin to increase.” -(VOICE)

There will always be the possibility of poor leaders. There are always going to be those who seek authority because they enjoy “lording it over” others, or telling people what to do, or just because they want power, and lots of it.

Solomon tells us that when the wicked come into power, when corruption moves into command, people go underground. In other words, they hide; for they know what atrocities are about to come to pass.

On the other hand, Solomon compares the wicked person’s leadership to the righteous, when the righteous rule, the people know it is okay to come back out.

“When the wicked prosper, good men go away; when the wicked meet disaster, good men return.” -(TLB)

We need to grasp two implied lessons here.

1.) The wicked may rule, but notice they will in time be destroyed, even perish. God will bring them to their end.

2.) Once the wicked has been brought down to disaster, the righteous will increase and become great again.

Always remember, no matter what is going on, or whoever is in leadership, God is, and will always be, in control. I remind you of the words of David:

“The Lord is my light and my salvation—Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the refuge and fortress of my life—Whom shall I dread? When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell. Though an army encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, even in this I am confident.” -Psalm 27:1-3(AMP)

I remind you of the fact that God is our Protector and always a Safe Haven for us. The Sons of Korah wrote these words:

“God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him. We stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom, courageous in seastorm and earthquake, before the rush and roar of oceans, the tremors that shift mountains. Jacob-wrestling God fights for us, God-of-Angel-Armies protects us.” -Psalm 46:1-3 (MSG)

God will fight for us and protect us from the wicked. One day they will finally get what they deserve. God told Isaiah this:

“I will turn the world’s wrongdoings back on itself. I will punish those who act wickedly. I will stop the arrogant musings of the proud and pompous, and make them puny and weak.” -Isaiah 13:11 (VOICE)

When that happens there will be great joy among the righteous; Solomon tells us this:

“When prosperity comes to those who do right, the whole city celebrates; but when the wicked get their just punishment, there is joyous cheering.” -Proverbs 11:10 (VOICE)

So, what is our duty toward the government when we find that the wicked and ungodly are in charge? The Bible actually tells us a few things that God wants us to do:

1.) Show respect to those in authority over you:
“Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level; they are God’s emissaries for keeping order. It is God’s will that by doing good, you might cure the ignorance of the fools who think you’re a danger to society. Exercise your freedom by serving God, not by breaking the rules. Treat everyone you meet with dignity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government.” -1 Peter 2:13-17 (MSG)

2.) Submit to and obey the ruling government:
“Obey the government, for God is the one who has put it there. There is no government anywhere that God has not placed in power. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow. For the policeman does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he will have you punished. He is sent by God for that very purpose. 5 Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should. Pay your taxes too, for these same two reasons. For government workers need to be paid so that they can keep on doing God’s work, serving you. Pay everyone whatever he ought to have: pay your taxes and import duties gladly, obey those over you, and give honor and respect to all those to whom it is due.” -Romans 13:1-7 (TLB)

3.) Pray for those in authority over you:
“So, first and foremost, I urge God’s people to pray. They should make their requests, petitions, and thanksgivings on behalf of all humanity. Teach them to pray for kings (or anyone in high places for that matter) so that we can lead quiet, peaceful lives—reverent, godly, and holy—all of which is good and acceptable before the eyes of God our Savior who desires for everyone to be saved and know the truth.” -1 Timothy 2:1-4 (VOICE)

Instead of complaining about how the leadership is handling things and expressing what you would do differently if you were in power, get down on your knees and pray for those whom God has placed in authority over you.

My friend, we may not always agree with who is in charge, we may even consider them to be wicked, but we have a responsibility to respect them, obey them and pray for them. Are you part of the solution or part of the problem? God will deal with wicked leadership in His time and in His way. In the meantime, be about the Father’s business.

“You can serve God acceptably under ungodly leadership. Like He did with Eli and his sons, God is going to deal with your leader and coworkers in one way or another. In the meantime, focus on your own faithfulness.” ~ Steven Furtick

My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Creator of all, God Most High, it is you who have placed the various leaders in their positions of leadership. It is you who have given them authority and power. If they abuse that authority and power remind me that you still are the Supreme Power; you are always in control. It is you who will humble them and discipline them. Remind me that it is my job to respect, obey and pray for them. I humbly ask that you will help me have the right attitude towards those who are in authority over me, even when I do not agree with what they are doing. Give the leadership your wisdom, Lord and help me keep my eyes firmly focused on you. Thank you.

Principle 30: Respect Those in Authority – Proverbs 24:21-22

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Proverbs 24:21-22 (NIV)
Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials,
for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?

Proverbs 24:21-22 (MSG)
Fear God, dear child—respect your leaders; don’t be defiant or mutinous. Without warning your life can turn upside down, and who knows how or when it might happen?
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“My son, fear the Lord and the king; and do not associate with those who are given to change [of allegiance, and are revolutionary], for their tragedy will rise suddenly, and who knows the punishment that both [the Lord and the king] will bring on the rebellious?” -AMPLIFIED

“The very word authority has within it the word author. An author is someone who creates and possesses a particular work. Insofar as God is the foundation of all authority, He exercises that foundation because He is the author and the owner of His creation. He is the foundation upon which all other authority stands or falls.” ~R.C. Sproul

Today we will address Solomon’s thirtieth, and final, principle. (Not his his final proverb though.) Here we find him focusing on the need to respect those in authority over you. This subject would be important to Solomon, since he was king over Israel.

“Fear God and honor the government.” ~Peter (1 Peter 2:17 TLB)

Principle 30:
“My son, fear both the Eternal and His anointed ruler. It is not wise to associate with those rebelling against them because disaster can arise from either of them without warning, and who knows what destruction comes down from both of them?” -(VOICE)

We find Solomon addressing his son in this final principle. Remember, these proverbs were used as a teaching method, to teach the young what was expected from them. Solomon tells his son, “Respect God and the one who has been put into place to lead.”

He also goes on to advise that it would not be a good idea to keep company with the rebellious or the revolutionary. These groups of people were radicals that were trying to stir up trouble for those in authority. Instead of working with those in leadership, this group was working against them.

Solomon tells us that these groups of rebels, these defiant ones, are headed for certain disaster. They think they are setting a trap for others and will fall into themselves.

“My son, watch your step before the Lord and the king, and don’t associate with radicals. For you will go down with them to sudden disaster, and who knows where it all will end?” -(TLB)

“Ruling elders are declared to be the representatives of the people.” ~Charles Hodge

Governments and authorities exist for the expressed purpose of serving those they govern. That is why God ordained their office of leadership, to serve and lead others, not to take advantage of them.

“Listen to your leaders and submit to their authority over the community, for they are on constant watch to protect your souls and someday they must give account. Give them reason to be joyful and not to regret their duty, for that will be of no good to you.” -Hebrews 13:17 (VOICE)

The Apostle Paul warned the Romans of the gravity and implication of respecting authority. He wrote these words of warning to them:

“It is important that all of us submit to the authorities who have charge over us because God establishes all authority in heaven and on the earth. Therefore, a person who rebels against authority rebels against the order He established, and people like that can expect to face certain judgment. You see, if you do the right thing, you have nothing to be worried about from the rulers; but if you do what you know is wrong, the rulers will make sure you pay a price. Would you not rather live with a clear conscience than always have to be looking over your shoulder? Then keep doing what you know to be good and right, and they will publicly honor you. Look at it this way: The ruler is a servant of God called to serve and benefit you. But he is also a servant of God executing wrath upon those who practice evil. If you do what is wrong, then you’d better be afraid because he wields the power of the sword and doesn’t make empty threats. So submission is not optional; it’s required. But don’t just submit for the sake of avoiding punishment; submit and abide by the laws because your conscience leads you to do the right thing.” -Romans 13:1-5 (VOICE)

Paul wrote to Titus of the need for the Believers to honor and respect the government authority. In fact, he even took it a step further and told them to “lend a helping hand”. In this way they would be letting their lights shine for Jesus.

“Remind the people to respect the government and be law-abiding, always ready to lend a helping hand. No insults, no fights. God’s people should be bighearted and courteous.” -Titus 3:1-2 (MSG)

There is just once instance in the Bible that supports going against the government and it can be found in the book of Acts. There we find Peter and the other apostles being confronted by the jealous Sanhedrin and the ruling High-priest. They were questioned and reprimanded for preaching about Jesus, the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Peter’s response to the leadership on that occasion was this:

“We must obey God rather than human beings!” -Acts 5:29 (NIV)

Scripture tells us to be supportive of our government, and in fact, it also tells us to pray for those in leadership over us.

“The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.” -1 Timothy 2:1-3 (MSG)

And so we close out the thirty principles with a reminder to respect, honor and pray for our government. In this way we will not only be letting our light shine for Jesus, but we will be supporting those who God has put into authority.

“Government is not mere advice; it is authority, with power to enforce its laws.” ~George Washington

My Prayer:
Lord, may I respect and honor those whom you have put into authority over me. I pray that you will bless them and equip and enable them to lead in the way that you desire. Let me put aside my own agenda and remember that I am to be a servant at heart. May I listen to your still, small voice leading and guiding me on this journey through life; being obedient to those over me.

The Lord Reigns Forever -Psalm 93

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Psalm 93:1-2 (NIV)
The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is established, firm and secure. Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity.

Psalm 93:1-2 (MSG)
God is King, robed and ruling, God is robed and surging with strength. And yes, the world is firm, immovable, Your throne ever firm—you’re Eternal!
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“The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty and splendor; the Lord has clothed and encircled Himself with strength; the world is firmly established, it cannot be moved. Your throne is established from of old; You are from everlasting.” -AMPLIFIED

“Prayer assumes the sovereignty of God. If God is not sovereign, we have no assurance that He is able to answer our prayers. Our prayers would become nothing more than wishes. But while God’s sovereignty, along with his wisdom and love, is the foundation of our trust in Him, prayer is the expression of that trust.” ~Jerry Bridges

Author: Unknown

Occasion: This psalm was a hymn of praise and confession of faith in Yahweh.

Purpose: In Jewish tradition Psalm 93 is the eighth and final psalm recited during the Kabbalat Shabbat service on Friday night. It is also often sung or recited in both Catholic and Protestant settings as part of the liturgy.

There are but five verses in this psalm; which are set into three short stanzas.

Stanza 1: (verses 1-2)
“The Eternal reigns, clothed in majesty; He is dressed in power; He has surrounded Himself with strength. He has established the world, and it will never be toppled. Your throne was established from the beginning of the world, O God, and You are everlasting.” -(VOICE)

The psalm immediately begins with a statement and declaration of deep truth; the Lord reigns! The Eternal One’s dynasty is firmly established and there will be no moving Him. He is King and Lord over all. And this has been the circumstances since the beginning of time, and even before that.

“Jehovah is King! He is robed in majesty and strength. The world is his throne. O Lord, you have reigned from prehistoric times, from the everlasting past.” -(TLB)

“It is a most blessed thing to be subject to the sovereignty of God.” ~John Calvin

Stanza 2: (verses 3-4)
“The waters have risen, O Eternal One; the sound of pounding waves is deafening. The waters have roared with power. More powerful than the thunder of mighty rivers, more powerful than the mighty waves in the ocean is the Eternal on high!” -(VOICE)

The reference to the tumultuous and chaotic waters here symbolizes all that oppose the Lord and His coming kingdom. They may try to rise up against Him, but they will be not match for the Lord Eternal, Yahweh!

“The mighty oceans thunder your praise. You are mightier than all the breakers pounding on the seashores of the world!” -(TLB)

Yahweh is mightier, stronger. His kingdom is firmly established and nothing and no one will move it.

“Sea storms are up, God, sea storms wild and roaring, sea storms with thunderous breakers. Stronger than wild sea storms, mightier than sea-storm breakers, mighty God rules from High Heaven.” -(MSG)

“In regard of God, patience is a submission to His sovereignty. To endure a trial, simply because we cannot avoid or resist it, is not Christian patience. But to humbly submit because it is the will of God to inflict the trial, to be silent because the sovereignty of God orders it – is true godly patience.”
~Stephen Charnock

Stanza 3: Conclusion (verse 5)
“Your teachings are true; Your decrees sure. Sacredness adorns Your house, O Eternal One, forevermore.” -(VOICE)

The psalm closes out with a reminder that Yahweh’s statutes and laws are indisputable; and they cannot be changed. The Lord’s testimonies can always be trusted and relied upon.

“Your written testimonies are completely reliable. O Yahweh, holiness is what makes your house beautiful for days without end.” -(NOG)

Moreover, we are reminded of God’s holiness; which is an indication that we need to live holy lives as well. We are cautioned to live a life following His decrees and laws because He alone is Eternal.

“I think to trust in the sovereignty of God does not excuse my personal responsibility. Just the opposite – it equips me to be personally responsible.”
~Max Lucado

“Your royal decrees cannot be changed. Holiness is forever the keynote of your reign.” -(TLB)

“He whose indisputable rule has made the world secure has given his people life directions that are stable and reliable and they must honor …His earthly temple-but also the heavenly.” -NIV study Bible footnote

My Prayer:
Yahweh, Your reign is eternal and just. You are the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. I humble myself before You, oh Lord. Nothing and no one can dispute Your sovereignty. Help me to live my life as a testament of your faithfulness and awesome power. You are God and there is none like you, Lord. Hallelujah!

God Has Authority Over the Storm

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Job 37:1-5 (NIV)
“At this my heart pounds and leaps from its place. Listen! Listen to the roar of his voice, to the rumbling that comes from his mouth. He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth. After that comes the sound of his roar; he thunders with his majestic voice. When his voice resounds, he holds nothing back. God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.”

Job 37:1-5 (MSG)
“Whenever this happens, my heart stops – I’m stunned, I can’t catch my breath. Listen to it! Listen to his thunder, the rolling, rumbling thunder of his voice. He lets loose his lightnings from horizon to horizon, lighting up the earth from pole to pole. In their wake, the thunder echoes his voice, powerful and majestic. He lets out all the stops, he holds nothing back. No one can mistake that voice – His word thundering so wondrously, his mighty acts staggering our understanding.”
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“Indeed, at His thundering my heart trembles and leaps out of its place. Listen carefully to the thunder of His voice, and the rumbling that goes out of His mouth! He lets it loose under the whole heaven, and His lightning to the ends of the earth. After it, His voice roars; He thunders with the voice of His majesty,
and He does not restrain His lightning [against His adversaries] when His voice is heard. God thunders marvelously with His voice; He does great things which we cannot comprehend.” -AMPLIFIED

Elihu takes the time to address and observe the power of God in nature. Who’s to say, but a storm may have been raging over the heads of these five friends as they sat together on the outskirts of town in the trash heap. We find Elihu jumping into his lecture to Job with a renewed energy. He says:
“At this, my heart quivers, and it nearly leaps out of my chest. Listen! Listen to the raging anger in His voice, the rumbling that’s coming from His mouth! He sets the roar loose across the whole length of the sky, and His lightning flashes to the ends of the earth. After the flash comes the deafening roar of His voice, the voice that thunders His majesty—The voice that resounds with no evidence of restraint, the voice of God that is thundering wondrously. He does magnificent things, beyond our comprehension.” -(VOICE)

“The storm may not part, but it never calls into question the absolute authority of the promise of God.” ~Alistair Begg

Elihu notices the majesty and glory of God in the midst of the storm. Notice how he points out the power of God in the various catastrophes of nature:
“To the snow, He issues the order: “Go! Fall on the earth!” And to the rain shower, He says, “Show your power; beat down heavy on the earth!” Then, as the weather drives laborers indoors, He closes in around every human hand, sealing them off from their labors, and in forced rest, all are drawn to see the ongoing work of God. The beast of the field scampers for cover, hiding in its cave for the duration. Meanwhile, the whirlwind comes forth from its southern chamber, and the arctic winds bring the cold. From the breath of God ice forms, and the wide waters of the rivers and seas expand in the freeze. He weighs down the thick clouds with moisture, and they scatter His clusters of light. The storm changes course under His guidance; it moves as He directs over the contours of the entire earth. And what is His aim? Whether for the discipline of His people or for the sake of the earth itself, or as an expression of His deep, loyal love, He causes all of this to happen.” -Job 37:6-13 (VOICE)

We then find Elihu speaking directly to Job for the need to take the time to think on the wonder and awesomeness of God.
“Hear this, Job. Pause where you are, and ponder the wonders of God.” -Job 37:14 (VOICE)

“It is about the greatness of God, not the significance of man. God made man small and the universe big to say something about himself.” ~John Piper

The Bible reminds us:

* “Our God is in heaven doing whatever He chooses.” -Psalm 115:3 (VOICE)

* “He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was [at once] a great and wonderful calm [a perfect peacefulness].” -Matthew 8:26 (AMP)

* “The Eternal’s anger builds slowly, but His power is great. He will not allow the guilty to go free. His way is in fierce winds and storms; the clouds are dust beneath His feet.” -Nahum 1:3 (VOICE)

* “Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.” -Psalm 46:10 (AMP)

* “And finally He said to me, “My grace is enough to cover and sustain you. My power is made perfect in weakness.” So ask me about my thorn, inquire about my weaknesses, and I will gladly go on and on—I would rather stake my claim in these and have the power of the Anointed One at home within me.” -2 Corinthians 12:9 (VOICE)

“The very word authority has within it the word author. An author is someone who creates and possesses a particular work. Insofar as God is the foundation of all authority, He exercises that foundation because He is the author and the owner of His creation. He is the foundation upon which all other authority stands or falls.” ~R.C. Sproul

Life is full of storms, and yet, God has authority over each and every one of them. Nothing slips by Him. The winds may blow strong, the waters rise, and the thunder crash close by us. Still God is in complete authority, for He alone is the Author of the storm; in His wisdom He has allowed us to go through it. Will you trust Him? Or will you fight against what He intends to do in your life for His glory?

“When we stand in the middle of a lifestorm, it seems as if the storm has become our way of life. We cannot see a way out. We are unable to chart a course back to smoother waters. We feel defeated – and broken. Will that brokenness produce a cynicism that will keep us forever in the mire of if only thinking? Or will we yield up that brokenness to the resources of One who calms the winds and the waves, heals the brokenhearted, and forgives the most grievous of sins? The choice is ours.” ~Verdell Davis

My Prayer:
Father God, the Author of every storm, help me to submit to the you when those storms seem to rage in my life. I know that you are in complete control. At times though, I am much like Peter; taking my eyes off of you and placing them on the storm. In those times, things appear to be impossible and insurmountable. Help me to trust you more, Lord, and allow you to do your good work in my life.

Taking Authority

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Esther 9:29 (NIV)
So Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim.

Esther 9:29 (MSG)
Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, backed Mordecai the Jew, using her full queenly authority in this second Purim letter to endorse and ratify what he wrote.
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“Then Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full power and authority to confirm this second letter about Purim.” -AMPLIFIED

Scripture states that Esther utilized her full authority as queen to endorse and affirm Mordecai’s letter that was being sent out to their fellow Jews. The fact that Xerxes had given Esther, his queen, authority shows us that he had faith in her decisions and he trusted her. What is also important for us to grasp is that Esther took advantage of this authority that had been extended to her.

Mordecai sent out the letters, endorsed by the queen, to all the Jews within the 127 provinces that were under Xerxes reign. The letters contained encouraging words of peace and truth. We are told that the letter was received well by the people because of Esther’s endorsement and support of it.
“Esther’s authority affirmed the tradition of Purim and it was written down in the official records.” -Esther 9:32 (VOICE)

“Authority exercised with humility, and obedience accepted with delight are the very lines along which our spirits live.” ~C.S. Lewis

What we need to understand is that Esther had been given authority, but if she did not utilize it, use it, it would have been useless. We too have been given power and authority over the Enemy of our souls. Jesus showed us how to use that authority; with the Word and prayer. We are also told to rebuke that Enemy and he will flee. We need to use the authority that has been placed at our disposal.

“God has work to do in this world; and to desert it because of its difficulties and entanglements, is to cast off His authority. It is not enough that we be just, that we be righteous, and walk with God in holiness; but we must also serve our generation, as David did before he fell asleep. God has a work to do; and not to help Him is to oppose Him.” ~John Owen

The Bible tells us that God has given us authority over the Enemy of our souls.

* “Listen carefully: I have given you authority [that you now possess] to tread on serpents and scorpions, and [the ability to exercise authority] over all the power of the enemy (Satan); and nothing will [in any way] harm you.” -Luke 10:19 (AMP)

* “Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.” -Hebrews 4:14-16 (MSG)

* “When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” -Luke 9:1-2(NIV)

* “So submit to [the authority of] God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him] and he will flee from you. Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; and purify your [unfaithful] hearts, you double-minded [people]. Be miserable and grieve and weep [over your sin]. Let your [foolish] laughter be turned to mourning and your [reckless] joy to gloom. Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose].” -James 4:7-10 (AMP)

* “And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.” -Ephesians 6:11-12 (MSG)

“Prayer is the risen Jesus coming in with His resurrection power, given free rein in our lives, and then using His authority to enter any situation and change things.” ~Ole Hallesby

God has given His followers authority, through Himself, in order that we may accomplish all that He has called us to do for Him. Too many Christians sit back and do not utilize that God-given authority, sadly. They sit back, whether in fear or ignorance, and do nothing. DO NOT give the Enemy a foothold my friend. Rebuke the Enemy. Use the tools that God has placed for you to use; the Word and prayer. Remember, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” -(NIV)

“A Christian possesses some measure of authority that enables him to do what God wants him to do. This authority is a shared authority from the Lord Jesus because we as Christians are His commissioned representatives here on earth, acting as His mouth, hands and feet. Thus, we must learn to follow Him and exercise the authority He has given us to enable us to succeed in the task He has entrusted to us.” ~J.B. Cachila (Christianity Today)

My Prayer,
Lord, help me not to cower in fear when faced with the Enemy’s tricks and schemes; instead let me use the power and authority that you have made available for me to use. I know how important reading your Word and praying is. I do these things. Help me though to face that Old Enemy and take authority over him in the Name of Jesus! You have made available to me the right tools; now help me to use them. Give me wisdom and direction, I pray, dear Lord. Thank you.

God is Sovereign

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23 (NIV)
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing: “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: “‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. Any of his people among you may go up, and may the Lord their God be with them.’”

2 Chronicles 36:22-23 (MSG)
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia—this fulfilled the message of God preached by Jeremiah—God moved Cyrus king of Persia to make an official announcement throughout his kingdom; he wrote it out as follows: “From Cyrus king of Persia a proclamation: God, the God of the heavens, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth. He has also assigned me to build him a Temple of worship at Jerusalem in Judah. All who belong to God’s people are urged to return—and may your God be with you! Move forward!”
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“Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia—in order to fulfill the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah—the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he sent a proclamation throughout his kingdom, and also put it in writing, saying, “Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: ‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and He has appointed me to build Him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever there is among you of all His people, may the Lord his God be with him, and let him go up [to Jerusalem]!’” -AMPLIFIED

The verses that close out 2 Chronicles are the exact same verses that open Ezra. This is why it is believed by many that the book of 2 Chronicles was written by Ezra. The verses before our text give us a quick synopsis of what happened to God’s people for their continuous insistence on sinning.
“He brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and did not spare young men or young women, the elderly or the infirm. God gave them all into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the Lord’s temple and the treasures of the king and his officials. They set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.
He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his successors until the kingdom of Persia came to power. The land enjoyed its sabbath rests; all the time of its desolation it rested, until the seventy years were completed in fulfillment of the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah.” -2 Chronicles 36:17-21 (NIV)

God allowed all these things to happen to His children because of their insistence on turning their back on Him and stubbornly doing their own thing. We need to remember that God is sovereign. He is the ultimate power and there is none higher than He. He knew what He was doing during this period of time of 2 Chronicles and He knows what He is doing during our own time.
“Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” -Psalm 115:3 (NIV)

“In spite of the generations of sin and hatred, God does not exile His people permanently. He leaves them with the hope of return to their homeland when He gives Jeremiah that prophecy. And their return is not too far away. In less than two generations, the Jews (as the Israelites become known during the exile) return to the land and rebuild His temple.” -VOICE footnote

Our God is a God of second chances. We find that after seventy years in exile He chooses to give His children the opportunity to do the right thing once again. (Those seventy years had been foretold, by Jeremiah, even before the exile of the people began.) This is where God’s sovereignty over all mankind is demonstrated. God used Cyrus, the king of Persia, who had taken over the former Babylonian Empire to fulfill His words. God compelled Cyrus to send out a written decree with the following message:
“The Eternal, the God of heaven, has decided to give me all the kingdoms of the world to rule as my own. In return for this, He has told me to build Him a new house in Jerusalem of Judah. Any of His people living in my empire may return to Jerusalem of Judah with the help of the Eternal One and True God.” -(VOICE)

We do not know who it was who influenced Cyrus for the Lord God, but we can see that he certainly moved on the behalf of the Jews. We need to remember though that God in His sovereign will has complete maturity over kingdoms, governments and leaders. God Himself spoke these words through Daniel:
“That night the answer to the mystery was given to Daniel in a vision. Daniel blessed the God of heaven, saying, “Blessed be the name of God, forever and ever. He knows all, does all: He changes the seasons and guides history, He raises up kings and also brings them down, he provides both intelligence and discernment, He opens up the depths, tells secrets, sees in the dark—light spills out of him! God of all my ancestors, all thanks! all praise! You made me wise and strong. And now you’ve shown us what we asked for. You’ve solved the king’s mystery.” -Daniel 2:21-23 (MSG)

“Although the sovereignty of God is universal and absolute, it is not the sovereignty of blind power. It is coupled with infinite wisdom, holiness and love. And this doctrine, when properly understood, is a most comforting and reassuring one. Who would not prefer to have his affairs in the hands of a God of infinite power, wisdom, holiness and love, rather than to have them left to fate, or chance, or irrevocable natural law, or to short-sighted and perverted self? Those who reject God’s sovereignty should consider what alternatives they have left.” ~Loraine Boettner

God is and will always be our Sovereign authority. Scripture tells us:

* “A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], but the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.” -Proverbs 16:9 (AMP)

* “O Lord, God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven? And do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand, there is no one able to take a stand against You.” -2 Chronicles 20:6 (AMP)

* “And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” Romans 8:28 (AMP)

“The God who knows you best knows the best for you.” ~Woodrow Kroll

My Friend, God is the ultimate authority in everything. Will you trust His sovereignty in your life? Let go and let God have His way in your life. There is freedom in trusting and resting in Him!

The sovereignty of God is the only foundation for worship in the midst of tragedy. ~David Platt

My Prayer:
Father God, I know and understand that you are the ultimate authority; sovereign in all things. I choose to submit to your control. Have your way in my life. I will trust you, Lord. You are God and you know best.