What other scriptures emphasize God's sovereignty over human actions and decisions? Focus Passage: 1 Samuel 26:12 “…because the LORD had put them into a deep sleep.” What the Scene Reveals • God is the active cause behind Saul’s army’s slumber. • David’s stealth succeeds only within God’s purposeful oversight. • The event showcases a pattern: human actions rest inside divine initiative. Scriptural Echoes of Divine Sovereignty —Over kings and governments • Proverbs 21:1 — “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD…” • Daniel 4:35 — “He does as He pleases… No one can restrain His hand…” • Revelation 17:17 — “…God has put it into their hearts to execute His purpose…” —Over personal plans and choices • Proverbs 16:9 — “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” • Proverbs 16:33 — “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” • Jeremiah 10:23 — “…a man’s way is not his own; it is not in a man to direct his steps.” —Over redemption’s storyline • Acts 2:23 — “He was delivered up by God’s set plan and foreknowledge…” • Acts 4:27-28 — “…they carried out what Your hand and purpose had decided beforehand…” • Romans 9:16,18 — “…it does not depend on man’s desire or effort… He hardens whom He wants…” —Over nations and history • Genesis 50:20 — “…what you intended for evil, God intended for good…” • Psalm 33:10-11 — “The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations…” • Job 42:2 — “…no plan of Yours can be thwarted.” —Over salvation and inheritance • Ephesians 1:11 — “…He works out everything by the counsel of His will.” Living the Truth • The same God who stilled Saul’s soldiers guides rulers, redirects everyday choices, and steers history. • Human responsibility is real, yet always enveloped by God’s sovereign will. • Rest and act in confidence: His purposes never fail, and His hand remains on every heart and every step. |
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