How should believers respond to God's control over future events as seen here? Setting the Scene “Then he took up his oracle and said: ‘Ah, who can live unless God has ordained it?’” (Numbers 24:23) The prophet Balaam, speaking under the Spirit’s direction, announces that every future outcome rests in God’s hands. Nothing and no one can outmaneuver His decree. What God’s Control Teaches Us •Sovereignty is absolute—He alone “declares the end from the beginning” (Isaiah 46:9-10). •Human plans are secondary—“Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail” (Proverbs 19:21). •Life itself is contingent—James 4:15 reminds us to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” Heart Responses God Desires •Humble submission –Stop striving to manage outcomes; instead, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). •Confident hope –He weaves every detail “for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). •Prayerful dependence –Bring requests with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7), trusting Him to align them with His perfect will. •Obedient action –Because He directs paths, we can obey today without fear of tomorrow (Proverbs 3:5-6). •Worshipful awe –Join the heavenly chorus: “Worthy are You, our Lord and God” (Revelation 4:11). Living It Out 1.Start each day acknowledging His rule: “Lord, my times are in Your hands” (Psalm 31:15). 2.Replace anxious speculation with Scripture promises—memorize verses such as Matthew 6:33-34. 3.Set goals prayerfully, adding “if the Lord wills” not as a cliché but as conviction. 4.When plans shift, choose gratitude—He is steering for your ultimate good. 5.Encourage others by rehearsing God’s past faithfulness, strengthening collective trust. Encouragement for the Long Haul •God’s control assures ultimate justice—He will “judge the world in righteousness” (Acts 17:31). •It guarantees mission success—The gospel will reach “every nation” (Matthew 24:14). •It secures personal destiny—Nothing can separate believers from His love (Romans 8:38-39). With eyes on the One who ordains every tomorrow, believers can rest, rejoice, and run with endurance today. |
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