God Reigns!

(Psalm 47:8 ESV) God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne.

While our scripture verse for today is short, it is packed with a powerfully reassuring message. God reigns! To truly appreciate this message we must first acknowledge that we live in a world of trouble. We face circumstances on a regular basis that serve to challenge our faith. Even Jesus clearly stated, “In the world you shall have trouble…”

We were created with three components: Body, soul, and spirit. Each of these components are subject to attack by the one whose job it is to kill, steal from, and destroy us. Satan relentlessly attacks on every front and will not quit as long as he feels there is a chance to defeat us.

Depressed? Don’t be! The Psalmist confidently speaks of two facts that should calm our frazzled nerves and strengthen our resolve.

First, God reigns! Specifically, he reigns over the nations. This describes the scope of His reign. There is no place on earth that is outside the realm of His reign.

You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
even there your hand shall lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
–Psalm 139:5-10 ESV

Second, God sits on His holy throne! This describes the power of His words. He doesn’t even have to rise to speak. He just gives the verbal instructions and His angels respond to His command.

“The Hebrew word so translated applies to any elevated seat occupied by a person in authority. The use of a chair in a country where the usual postures were squatting and reclining was at all times regarded as a symbol of dignity. The king sat on his throne on state occasions. At such times he appeared in his royal robes. The throne was the symbol of supreme power and dignity.” (Biblehub)

Notice, God is not pacing the floor, worried about the outcome. The fact that He is seated on the throne indicates that He has the authority to move the necessary resources into place where and when they are needed. What a picture of power! Angelic beings stand ready to perform the will of the reigning God.

Rest, my friend. God’s got this. He reigns!

PRAYER: Father, the best thing I can do today is rest in the fact that You are more than adequate to handle anything I may face today. My life is in the hands of the one who reigns supreme. Amen.