The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.
Psalms 103:19 NIV
While there are fewer monarchies today, there are still a few around. A handful retain absolute power of rule, but most, like the United Kingdom, have a king or queen with limited political power. Like any form of government, there are good and bad leaders.
Today's verse is about the Lord, the ultimate king, who rules in benevolence, justice, wisdom, and truth. While there have been some pretty good earthly kings (read 2 Chronicles), none can come close to the Lord. Even the best had their flaws; David was an adulterer and murderer and sometimes lacked discernment. But God has no comparison; he is perfect, sinless, and without error–God can't make mistakes.
The Lord, perfect in every way, rules over all. While his seat is in heaven, he is intimately involved in the lives of every detail of all things that happen in the multiverse. There is not a single event that escapes his notice. God doesn't do this from a place of being a creepy voyeur but out of his great love and compassion for us.
In sending his Son, the Father taught us how to live righteously. In Jesus offering us his sinless body in sacrifice, we are forgiven. We formerly were rebels; through him, we are reconciled. Though the King's throne is in a place we have never seen, we have gained access to the Son who intercedes for us. The access is bi-directional; the King hears our pleas and responds–sometimes directly, sometimes through others.
We know the King is on the throne and rules because we feel him. By the Holy Spirit, he resides within us. We see evidence of his existence as we look around amid the chaos of our earthly realm. Yes, wickedness still exists. We are surrounded by sinful people doing evil things. But even in that mess, the Lord established on his throne is still at work. Though we don't know how, and we don't know when, God is going to turn all the wickedness into good. Evil cannot prevail because the God of goodness is the ruler of all.
Lord, you are the King of kings and the Lord of lords. You reign over all creation with power and wisdom. You are worthy of all praise and honor. We come to you today with a humble request. We need your help. You know our circumstances better than we do and have the perfect solution. Lord, hear our prayers and answer us according to your will. Grant us your grace and mercy, and provide for us according to your riches in glory. Show us your ways, and teach us your paths. Lead us in your truth and make us obedient to your word. Thank you, Lord, for hearing our prayers and caring for us. We trust in you and await your answer. We praise you for your goodness and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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