Perfect Plans
September 28, 2017
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Perfect Plans
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So all the world from east to west will know there is no other God. I am the Lord, and there is no other (v.6).
The rejection letter I received from the university’s registrar sent me spiraling into shock and disbelief. In the midst of my sadness and confusion, I was grateful that one of my cousins had encouraged me to apply to another school. Fortunately, I was accepted by that university. While I didn’t understand why I was unable to attend my dream school, I recognized that God wasn’t surprised. He knew everything about my situation and had my best in mind.
Years before the birth of King Cyrus, the prophet Isaiah declared, “This is what the Lord says to Cyrus, his anointed one . . . . I will go before you . . . and level the mountains. . . . I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, the one who calls you by name. And why have I called you for this work? Why did I call you by name when you did not know me? It is for the sake of Jacob my servant, Israel my chosen one” (Isaiah 45:1-4).
Since God had declared that He was “the God of Israel” (v.3), His actions through a foreign king may have seemed unusual. Even more surprising would have been the idea that God was using this foreign power to bring about something good for His chosen people. Yet God dispels any doubts with this unequivocal declaration, “I am the Lord; there is no other God. I have equipped you for battle, though you don’t even know me, so all the world from east to west will know there is no other God” (vv.5-6).
The university I attended ending up providing me with connections that laid a solid foundation for my career. What made no sense to me at the time became a shining example of God working out His purposes for my good and His glory. We can rest in His perfect plans. —Remi Oyedele
MORE
Read Daniel 2:20-22 for additional insight into God’s sovereignty.
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How do you react when you find yourself in a situation you don’t understand and don’t like? Think about what God may be doing and ask for the grace to trust Him even in your responses.
‘The Heart Of Worship’ – Incredible Live Performance From Matt Redman At Passion from matt-redman on GodTube.
