How can we trust God's plan when facing opposition, as seen in 1 Kings 11:17? Setting the Scene “ But Hadad fled to Egypt, along with some Edomites from his father’s servants, while Hadad was still a little boy.” (1 Kings 11:17) Solomon’s compromises had consequences. The LORD Himself “raised up” adversaries (v. 14), one of whom was young Hadad. Even in the arrival of an enemy, God’s hand was quietly steering history. That same sovereign hand steadies us when we meet resistance. God Uses Opposition to Fulfill His Purposes • The LORD “raised up” the adversary (v. 14). Enemies did not slip past His guard; He sent them. • Scripture repeats this pattern: – Pharaoh’s hardness advanced God’s glory (Exodus 9:16). – Opposition scattered the early church and spread the gospel (Acts 8:1–4). • Nothing thwarts God: “I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.” (Job 42:2) Why We Can Trust God’s Plan When Opposed • His sovereignty is absolute. Hadad’s flight, though hostile to Solomon, unfolded under divine supervision (Proverbs 16:9). • His wisdom surpasses ours. “ ‘My thoughts are not your thoughts…’ ” (Isaiah 55:8–9) • His motives are good. Even discipline aims at restoration (Hebrews 12:10–11). • His promises are sure: “God works all things together for good to those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28) Lessons Drawn from 1 Kings 11 1. Opposition often exposes hidden sin. Solomon’s idolatry was uncovered; resistance became the wake-up call. 2. God prepares deliverance before we see the threat. Hadad grew up in Egypt years before he returned; the timeline was in God’s hands. 3. The scale of the enemy does not determine the outcome. A “little boy” eventually troubled a mighty king. Practical Ways to Trust Amid Pushback • Anchor daily in Scripture—truth steadies emotions (Psalm 119:105). • Recall past faithfulness—testimony fuels confidence (1 Samuel 7:12). • Submit in obedient repentance where needed—opposition can be a divine alert (Revelation 3:19). • Pray God’s promises back to Him—“Cast your burden on the LORD, and He will sustain you.” (Psalm 55:22) • Choose gratitude—thanksgiving shifts focus from foes to Father (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Promises to Hold When Resistance Rises • Protection: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him.” (Psalm 34:7) • Presence: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) • Victory: “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) • Purpose: “What you intended against me for evil, God intended for good.” (Genesis 50:20) Takeaway Hadad’s escape looked like a random threat, yet it served a precise purpose in God’s grand design. Opposition still functions that way for believers today. Because the Author of Scripture rules every detail, we can rest, obey, and watch His flawless plan unfold—even when adversaries appear on the horizon. |
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