THE STORY OF JESUS: 1 Kings 20-22
“I saw the Lord sitting on his throne with all the multitudes of heaven.” (1 Kings 22:19)
So who is really in charge of our world?
As humans, we manage God’s creation for Him, though we do it poorly.
Among us some humans use and abuse that power as leaders.
In these chapters we see kings using and abusing their powers over others.
Jehoshaphat and Ahab sit on thrones surrounded by prophets (1 Kings 22:10).
But Micaiah reminds them that behind this earthly scene is God’s throne (v.19).
Human rulers do their best and worst, but always behind them is God.
God works behind the scenes to make sure good and truth triumph in the end.
It was no random arrow that brought down Ahab, but the God’s judgment of sin.
Pilate thought he was in charge, but Jesus reminds him Who is really in charge.
“You would have no power over me if not given to you from above.” (John 19:11)
Trudeau, Putin, Trump and Kim Jong-Un, etc. rule under God’s discretion.
As Jesus followers, we are loyal to the throne above, and not to human thrones.
We serve leaders out of loyalty to Jesus, but only He deserves our full devotion!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, forgive us for being so caught up in the politics of this world that we forget what obedient to You means. Your throne trumps every other!
What do I value and where do I put my trust?
Where do the leaders of the world put their trust? Where do they go for advice? Whose word do they follow?
As the Psalmist says
‘Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD.’
My prayer for the ‘kings’ of today would be that they trust in the name of the Lord and not in their own strength and alliances nut follow His Way – inquiring of the Lord how to rule the people – exercising love and mercy and justice.
Have Thine own way, Lord,
Have Thine own way;
Thou art the Potter,
I am the clay.
Mould me and make me
After Thy will,
While I am waiting,
Yielded and still.