God Rules Over Everything

Scripture: "For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things which have not been done, saying, 'My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure.'" Isaiah 46:9-10

What is Sovereignty?

The word sovereignty is often used to describe a king or a ruler. It means that person has total authority and control. But while earthly kings and kingdoms are conquered and eventually forgotten, God has a different kind of sovereignty. He is in complete control for eternity.

Total Control

God created everything, from big things like the universe down to the smallest things like cells and particles. And He continues to keep everything working. Colossians 1:16-17 says of Jesus, who is God,“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible . . . all things were created through him and for him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

Job, one of the earliest people in the Bible, wondered why he experienced such terrible suffering. But after hearing from God, Job said, "I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted." (Job 42:2)

At the Cross

God’s control is seen most clearly at the crucifixion. For Jesus’ followers, it was the end of the world. Their beloved leader was captured, tortured and killed. How could God possibly be in control? Yet, Acts tells us that this was part of God’s plan. Acts 2:23 tells us “This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge.” This horrible event – including all the wicked plans of Jesus’ enemies – were part of God’s plan to save us from our sins.

Eternal Control

Even if an earthly king manages to defend himself and his country from enemies, he eventually dies, and someone takes his place. But that doesn’t happen with God. Psalm 145:13 describes God by saying, “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations.”

God is the one who rules completely and eternally. Romans 8:28 says “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” That means God uses each experience we have for our good and for His eternal glory. So whatever we may be going through, we can find comfort in knowing that every experience, good or bad, passes through God’s hands.