Sometimes we have more than we think. We take things for granted. So it’s hard to find contentment and peace. David experienced much hardship and trauma, but he always found peace through the Holy Spirit.
One thing he relied on and appreciated was the Lord’s continuing guidance and direction. He trusted God and knew in his heart that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). He was confident that the Lord leads His people, not for their own sake, but for God’s. It gave him hope and enabled him to rest on the inside.
“He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3).
RELEVANCE
While America’s founding fathers had diverse views relating to God, historical documents point to the fact that they did believe in God and counted on His divine providence in the leading of their affairs. Benjamin Franklin put succinctly: “I believe in One God, the Creator of the Universe. That he governs it by his Providence.”
How He governs has always been an issue of debate. God used Daniel to prove to the kings of Babylon that “the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses” (Daniel 4:32). Nebuchadnezzar learned the hard way, but after experiencing what had been prophesied confessed, “the Most High rules in the kingdom of men…He does according to His will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth.”
Even his successor, Darius, learned first hand of God’s sovereignty. After seeing Daniel walk from the lion’s den he declared, “I make a decree that in every dominion of my kingdom men must tremble and fear before the God of Daniel. For He is the living God, and steadfast forever; His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed, and His dominion shall endure to the end. He delivers and rescues, and He works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth… (Daniel 6:26-27).
God is sovereign. He rules and overrules the affairs of mankind. A wise person knows it is better to be on His side; in His grace and favor, by worshiping in spirit and truth.
REFLECT AND RELATE
What doubts may you have towards God? If you are enduring a difficult situation and doubt God’s presence or providence, ask Him to reveal Himself—His heart, His face and His hand.
REFERENCES
Matthew 14:22-33