Which other scriptures highlight God's sovereignty over earthly rulers? Job 34:30—The Starting Point “So that godless men should not rule or lay snares for the people.” Echoes in Wisdom Literature • Proverbs 21:1 — “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases.” • Psalm 75:6-7 — “For exaltation comes neither from east nor west, nor out of the desert, but it is God who judges; He brings one down and exalts another.” Historic Narratives That Prove the Point • 1 Samuel 2:6-8 — Hannah reminds us that the LORD “raises the poor from the dust” and “sets them among princes.” • 2 Chronicles 20:6 — Jehoshaphat prays, “In Your hand are power and might, and no one can resist You.” The Prophetic Voice • Isaiah 40:23-24 — God “brings the princes to nothing” and “reduces the rulers of this world to naught.” • Isaiah 45:1, 7 — Cyrus is God’s “anointed,” proving He even shepherds pagan kings; the LORD “forms light and creates darkness.” • Jeremiah 27:5 — “I have made the earth… and I give it to anyone I please.” • Daniel 2:21 — “He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them.” • Daniel 4:17 — “The Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to whomever He wishes.” New-Covenant Confirmation • John 19:11 — Jesus to Pilate: “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given you from above.” • Romans 13:1-2 — “There is no authority except that which is from God, and those that exist have been appointed by God.” • Revelation 17:17 — God orchestrates even rebellious kings “to carry out His purpose.” Why This Matters for Every Age • God is never surprised by elections, coups, or dynasties. • He can use faithful leaders like David and even reluctant ones like Cyrus. • Believers rest secure, knowing earthly power is on a short leash held by an eternal King. Living in Light of These Truths • Honor governing authorities without forgetting Who truly reigns. • Pray for rulers, confident that God can turn hearts and times. • Face political turbulence with the calm assurance that the throne in heaven is occupied and unshakable. |
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