When things seem out of Control...

Read Proverbs 21.

If you ever wonder if God is still in control, here are three statements to consider.  These will test our faith from time to time when things appear to be going in the wrong direction.

1. The LORD controls the leaders.
"The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will."  (v.1)
Do leader's sin? Yes they do.  Are some even under the influence of Satan?  Yes.  But they will ultimately fulfill God's purposes.  In the days of Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar made some horrible, anti-God decisions.  But the LORD was able to protect His people and change the king.  In the days of Esther, the king made some unconscionable decrees.  Yet, God moved in a miraculous way to change the king's mind and world history.  Pray for the leaders in your life.

2. The LORD controls the plans.
"No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the LORD." (v.30)
Satan and the selfish interests of the human mind have invented an endless array of false beliefs and directions for life.  However, none of them will stand the tests of time and truth.  Reading the Scriptures and comparing them with history provides absolute confidence that God is in charge of His-story.  Indeed, the culmination of all things is written down for us.  We are not left in the dark as to what the LORD is doing.
Learn God's plans in the Bible.

3. The LORD controls the results.
"The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD." (v.31)
This statement laughs in the face of those who claim to be self-made successes.  All power and, therefore, all glory belongs to the Owner of all things.  Are we responsible to work hard and diligently use our opportunities for achievement of good goals?  Absolutely.  But as we do, it is with the full recognition of the Source of our gifts, talents, opportunities and results.
Trust God for His will to be done.