Isaiah 45:1-7 God Is In Control
In 539 B.C., Cyrus, King of Persia, surrounded and overtook the city of Babylon. Isaiah tells us that Cyrus was "anointed" by God to do this and to free the people of Israel from their captivity in Babylon. Isaiah goes on to explain that The LORD is the only true God. There are none besides Him. He chose Cyrus and prepared him for his victories even though Cyrus did not know Him. Isaiah said in this way the He showed Israel and all the world that He alone is LORD. He makes the light and the darkness. He makes peace and calamity.Β
Governments can become very powerful, and they can use their power for good or evil. Christians should always pray for government leaders knowing that God is ultimately in control of them. Paul urged us to pray in this way: Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
Prayer: LORD God, You are the King of kings, and you rule over all things for the sake Your kingdom. Guide our president, governor, and all our leaders to do Your will, putting down what is evil and lifting up what is good. Help us to use every opportunity we have to do good and to tell the world that You alone are the LORD who saves. Amen. (MPW 10/19/20)
Hymn: Praise the Almighty LSB 797
Praise the Almighty, my soul, adore Him! Yes, I will laud Him until death; With songs and anthems I come before Him As long as He allows me breath. From Him my life and all things came; Bless, O my soul, His holy name. Alleluia, alleluia!
Trust not in rulers; they are but mortal; Earthborn they are and soon decay. Vain are their counsels at lifeβs last portal, When the dark grave engulfs its prey. Since mortals can no help afford, Place all your trust in Christ, our Lord. Alleluia, alleluia!
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