Ephesians 1:11 … according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

Dear reader, how would you answer this question? Who is in control of the affairs and events on planet earth, including your own life? In our study of Daniel chapter 4, we come across the phrase: “to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men” (v 17) multiple times (vv 25, 32; additionally in 5:21). Read again the words, “The Most High rules in the kingdom of men”. End of discussion. No truth of Scripture disturbs control-freak sinners as that truth. Oh many Christians would say that they would not want to be in control, but every one of us must readily admit that we are not really “happy campers” when things do not turn out the way we want them to. Consider a few passages with me this morning: “Whatsoever the LORD pleased, [that] did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.” (Psalm 135:6); “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:” (Isaiah 46:10

I could go on for hours citing the passages that speak of God’s sovereign control over His entire universe. The purpose of this decree that was given to King Nebuchadnezzar was not meant to be left to his private interpretation. It was to teach not only him, but you and me that in the realm of activity that takes place on planet earth, God reigns. He sets up and pulls down kingdoms. His actions in history focus on the work of humbling men in order that they may dispense with their foolish pride and acknowledge Him as their God. Still not convinced? “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever He wills.” (Proverbs 21:1) “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” (Romans 13:1)

So let me ask you again, my dear friends, who is in control of this planet? Human beings? Angels? Satan? Prior to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, we read this declaration of the heavens in Revelation 19:6: “And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.” God’s sovereign control over things does not diminish human responsibility for our actions; it actually enhances the truth that as Christians, we are commanded as His people to believe on His Son Jesus Christ for the salvation of our souls and then walk worthy of Him, in holiness and purity. Beloved, our times are in His hands. Every breath we take is a gift from Him. He knew us in our mother’s womb. He knew the day we would be born and He knows the day when He will call us home. Life is filled with mysterious events. Our only source of perfect peace is found in God’s perfect love for us. Resign from being the god of your life, and choose to live like a redeemed soul who humbly walks by faith with The Everlasting God, Who is right now working all things together for good. Trust whatever you are facing today to The One Who died for you and rose again from the dead to give you life. Who you believe is in control will determine your level of peace or anxiety. Selah