GOD\'S SOVEREIGNTY OVER THE NATIONS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all." – Psalm 103:19 (ESV)
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Introduction
In times of upheaval, uncertainty, and distress among nations, many find themselves gripped by fear and confusion. The world appears to be spiraling into deeper chaos, with nations trembling under the weight of divine judgment. However, as believers, we must hold firmly to the truth that God is in control. The wickedness of humanity, the deception of the rulers of darkness, and the arrogance of those who reject God's authority are being exposed.
God’s people must not fear but instead rejoice, knowing that He is both our refuge and our guide. In the midst of the world’s rebellion and turmoil, He promises to keep His people in perfect peace. This teaching will explore the sovereignty of God over nations, His righteous judgment, and the protection He provides for those who remain faithful to Him.
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GOD'S SUPREME RULE OVER THE NATIONS
"The Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom He will and sets over it the lowliest of men." – Daniel 4:17 (ESV)
Throughout history, God has demonstrated that He is the ultimate authority over the affairs of men. Kings rise and fall according to His will. No human ruler, no matter how powerful, operates outside of God's sovereign plan. The turbulence in the world today is not random; it is a reflection of God’s divine justice against sin.
Many rulers seek to establish their dominion apart from God, embracing lawlessness and rebellion. But the Lord, in His righteous anger, exposes their corruption and brings judgment upon them. As believers, we must trust in God's perfect plan, knowing that He is just and righteous in all His ways.
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THE WICKEDNESS OF HUMANITY EXPOSED
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." – Romans 3:23 (ESV)
One of the reasons for the current upheaval in the world is the increasing wickedness of humanity. People have rejected God, choosing instead to pursue their selfish desires and immoral ways. As a result, their wickedness is being brought to light, revealing the true depravity of mankind without God.
The arrogance of men who seek to control others without acknowledging God's authority will ultimately lead to their downfall. God allows their evil to be exposed so that all may see the consequences of living apart from Him. The world is in distress not because God has abandoned it, but because humanity has abandoned God.
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GOD'S PEOPLE ARE KEPT IN PERFECT PEACE
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." – Isaiah 26:3 (ESV)
In contrast to the fear and turmoil consuming the world, God promises His people perfect peace. This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in our trust in Him. Those who remain faithful to God will not be overcome by fear, for they are secure in His presence.
As the world is shaken, believers must remember that their true security is in God alone. No government, wealth, or human power can provide the peace that comes from trusting in the Lord. We must fix our eyes on Him and refuse to be swayed by the fear-driven narratives of the world.
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GOD’S PROTECTION AND PROVISION FOR HIS PEOPLE
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe." – Proverbs 18:10 (ESV)
Even as nations tremble and evil spreads, God remains the refuge of His people. He is our high tower, our fortress, and our protector. The wicked may attempt to bring fear upon the righteous, but they cannot overcome those who take refuge in the Lord.
God has promised to sustain His people even in difficult times. Just as He provided for Elijah during the famine (1 Kings 17:6), He will provide for those who put their trust in Him. We must not rely on the world’s systems but instead depend on God's supernatural provision.
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THE DANGER OF FEARING THE WORLD INSTEAD OF GOD
"The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe." – Proverbs 29:25 (ESV)
Fear is a tool of the enemy used to enslave people. The world is filled with fear—fear of war, financial collapse, disease, and disaster. However, believers are called to walk by faith, not by fear. When we fear God rather than man, we are free from the oppression of the enemy.
The spirit of fear seeks to control, manipulate, and deceive. Many in the world today are being consumed by fear because they do not have a foundation in God. But those who put their trust in the Lord will stand firm, unshaken by the chaos around them.
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Summary
1. God is sovereign over all nations and rules over the affairs of men.
2. The wickedness of humanity is being exposed, revealing the consequences of rejecting God.
3. God’s people are kept in perfect peace when they trust in Him.
4. The Lord provides protection and sustenance for His faithful ones.
5. Fear is a weapon of the enemy, but those who fear the Lord have nothing to be afraid of.
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Conclusion
As the world continues to experience turmoil, God calls His people to remain steadfast in faith. We are not to be troubled by the chaos around us but to rest in the assurance that God is in control. Our trust must be in Him alone, for He is our protector, provider, and peace-giver.
Let us not be moved by fear but instead stand firm in our faith, knowing that the Lord is our strong tower. He is faithful to those who seek Him, and His promises will never fail.
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Call to Action
• Examine your heart and ensure that your trust is in God, not in the world.
• Spend time in prayer and the Word to strengthen your faith.
• Encourage others to trust in the Lord during these uncertain times.
• Share the message of hope and salvation with those who are lost.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). No matter what happens in the world, we are secure in Him. He is our protector, provider, and peace, and we have nothing to fear. Let us hold fast to our faith and walk in confidence, knowing that our God reigns!
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, now is the time. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
"Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead me in Your ways. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
