THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD OVER NATIONS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Isaiah 40:15
"Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they were fine dust."
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INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, God has demonstrated His sovereignty over nations, exalting those that honor Him and bringing down those that persist in wickedness. Many nations have risen to greatness only to be cast down into oblivion because of their rebellion against God. This study explores the divine authority of God over nations, His judgment on the wicked, and His faithfulness to the righteous. As believers, we must understand that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and our trust should remain in the Lord, not in worldly systems.
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GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY OVER ALL NATIONS
Daniel 2:21
"He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning."
God rules over all nations and determines their rise and fall. No government or ruler can stand without His permission. Nations that exalt themselves in pride, thinking they are self-sufficient, are soon humbled by the Almighty. Those that submit to His will find favor and longevity.
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THE FALL OF GREAT NATIONS
Proverbs 14:34
"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people."
History is filled with examples of nations that were once powerful but have now been reduced to ruins due to their wickedness. God does not tolerate evil indefinitely. When a nation's foundation becomes corrupt, and its leaders and people persist in sin, it is only a matter of time before judgment falls upon them.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF REBELLION AGAINST GOD
Psalm 9:17
"The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God."
Nations that reject God are not only doomed in this life but also in the life to come. The moral decay, injustice, and idolatry that characterize many societies today are clear signs of rebellion against God. Such nations will experience His wrath, manifested in political instability, economic downfall, natural calamities, and ultimately, destruction.
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GOD PRESERVES THE RIGHTEOUS IN TIMES OF JUDGMENT
Psalm 37:39-40
"The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in times of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him."
Even in times of great distress and judgment, God protects those who remain faithful to Him. While nations collapse, believers who trust in God will be led by His Spirit and provided for. Just as Noah and his family were spared from the flood, God's people will be preserved from destruction.
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THE HOPE OF NEW NATIONS UNDER GOD
Isaiah 43:19
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
Though God brings judgment upon sinful nations, He also raises up new nations that will honor Him. Where darkness once prevailed, God establishes righteousness. It is through divine intervention that nations dedicated to truth and justice emerge from the ashes of those that were destroyed.
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SUMMARY
God is sovereign over all nations. He raises up and brings down nations according to His righteousness. Wicked nations that persist in sin will face destruction, but the righteous will be preserved. As believers, we should not fear the fall of nations but rejoice in the new work that God is doing.
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CONCLUSION
As the world faces great turmoil, we must remember that God's plan is unfolding. He is shaking the earth, removing corrupt systems, and preparing the way for His kingdom. Our trust should not be in governments or economies but in the Lord. He is faithful to those who call upon Him and will always make a way for His people.
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CALL TO ACTION
Do not be deceived by worldly systems that oppose God. Stand firm in faith, pray for nations, and proclaim the gospel. Seek first the kingdom of God, knowing that He alone is the source of true security and hope.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God is in control, and His purposes will prevail. No matter how chaotic the world seems, He is still on the throne. Keep your eyes on Jesus, for He is the way, the truth, and the life. Remain steadfast in faith and be confident that He will lead you through every storm.
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SALVATION PRAYER
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again on the third day. I repent of my sins and ask You to forgive me. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior and Lord. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead me in Your ways. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
