What does Psalm 136:20 teach about God's power over earthly rulers? Verse in Focus “and Og king of Bashan — His loving devotion endures forever.” (Psalm 136:20) Setting the Scene • Israel is on the verge of entering the Promised Land (Numbers 21; Deuteronomy 3). • Og is a giant king (Deuteronomy 3:11) ruling a fortified, well-armed region. • In human terms, Israel’s odds against Og were impossibly low, yet God personally intervenes and gives victory. What Psalm 136:20 Declares about God’s Power over Rulers • God topples the mightiest earthly monarchs as easily as removing a pawn from a board. • No ruler’s size, reputation, or military strength intimidates the Lord. • The repeated refrain “His loving devotion endures forever” ties God’s sovereign intervention to His covenant love; His power serves His promises. • By naming Og, the verse anchors God’s supremacy in real history, not mythology. Key Truths to Draw Out 1. Sovereignty without Rival – Daniel 4:35: “He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the people of the earth.” – Jeremiah 27:5: God gives lands “to anyone I please.” 2. Kings Are Instruments, Not Obstacles – Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases.” – Psalm 2 shows resistant rulers ending up serving the Son. 3. Covenant Love Drives Divine Power – Exodus 15:13 connects redemption and steadfast love. – Romans 8:31-39 echoes that nothing can stand against those God loves. From Then to Now—Why It Matters • Global powers rise and fall, but the Lord’s authority is unchanged. • Believers need not fear governmental shifts; God can dethrone or direct any leader. • Confidence in mission: if God could overthrow Og for His people, He can open doors for the gospel today. Supporting Scripture Snapshot • Deuteronomy 3:1-5 – Historical record of Og’s defeat. • Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him.” • Acts 12:21-23 – Herod silenced; God still humbles proud rulers. Takeaway Psalm 136:20 celebrates a specific victory to remind every generation that the Lord alone holds ultimate power over every earthly ruler and deploys that power in faithful love for His people. |
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