In what ways can we trust God's sovereignty in our current challenges? Setting the Scene: Locusts and Lordship “The locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt and settled within all the territory of Egypt. Never before had there been such a great number of locusts, nor will there ever be again.” (Exodus 10:14) Observations from Exodus 10:14 • Literal plague, literal power—God’s word records a historical event, not a parable • Scope: “the whole land,” underscoring that no corner of Egypt lay outside God’s reach • Superlative language: “never before… nor will there ever be,” pointing to unrivaled control • Purpose: this judgment pressed Pharaoh toward releasing Israel, showing God orchestrates even calamity to advance redemption (Exodus 10:1–2) Lessons on Sovereignty for Today’s Challenges 1. God commands every circumstance • Just as He summoned locusts, He governs today’s viruses, economies, and personal trials. • Psalm 115:3—“Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases.” 2. God sets limits and timelines • He determined both the arrival and departure of the locusts (Exodus 10:19). • 1 Corinthians 10:13—He “will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it.” 3. God’s actions have redemptive intent • The plague hastened Israel’s freedom; our hardships press us toward Christlikeness (Romans 8:28-29). 4. God distinguishes His people even in shared crises • While Egypt reeled, Israel was being prepared for deliverance. • 2 Corinthians 4:8-9—“We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed…” Trust Anchored in God’s Track Record • Flood (Genesis 7-8): judgment and rescue • Red Sea (Exodus 14): trapped yet triumphant • Babylonian exile (Jeremiah 29:10-14): discipline with promised restoration • Calvary (Acts 2:23-24): greatest injustice turned into salvation Every episode confirms: when situations look uncontrollable, they are never outside His control. Practices That Keep Our Hearts Resting in His Rule • Recall His past interventions—personal journals, testimonies, Scripture narratives • Rehearse His promises—read aloud passages like Isaiah 46:9-10, Matthew 10:29-31 • Release the what-ifs—entrust future outcomes to the One who numbers hairs and ordains days (Psalm 139:16) • Remain obedient—Israel still packed for departure; faith expresses itself in prepared action (James 2:17) Trust grows when we remember that the God who mobilized locusts to fulfill His plan still commands every detail of ours, ensuring that even today’s swarms ultimately serve our good and His glory. |