Maybe you struggle with the whole notion that God is in control of the good, the bad and the ugly in life. I like this definition: “The fact that God is sovereign essentially means that he has the power, wisdom, and authority to do anything he chooses within his creation.”
The Bible states it more simply: “When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other.” (Ecclesiastes 7:14)
If that doesn’t convince you, how about this? “The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths.” (Psalm 135:6)
Now that we have established that God is large and in charge, you can now thank him. “What? Thank him for what just happened to me? You have no idea how much trouble I’ve experienced!” The Bible says, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
If you have a problem with doing that, then you really won’t like the two preceding verses: “Rejoice always, pray continually….” Why in the world would you rejoice always and pray continually? Because God is sovereign.
If you are a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, whatever he allows to happen in your life is for your good and for his purposes. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
Now we can now praise him! What does that sound like? “I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.” (Psalm 145: 1-2)
Why would the Psalmist do that? Because… “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.” (v. 8)
My favorite dead pastor, Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) wrote: “Look to the past and whether through poverty, wealth, sickness, or health, whether at home or abroad, or on land, sea, or air, and whether in honor, dishonor, difficulties, joy, trials, triumph, prayer, or temptation—“Thus far has the Lord helped us”! (1 Samuel 7:12) “Look to the future and there are still more trials, joys, temptations, battles, defeats, victories, prayers, answers, toils, and strength yet to come. These are then followed by sickness, old age, disease, and death.
“Then is life over after death? No! These are still yet to come: arising in the likeness of Jesus; thrones, harps, and the singing of psalms; being ‘clothed in white garments,’ seeing the face of Jesus, and sharing fellowship with the saints; and experiencing the glory of God, the fullness of eternity, and infinite joy.”
Wow! I take it all back. In retrospect, 2020 was a wonderful year because God was in charge of it and thus far, has helped us. Thank you, Lord. We will praise you as an all-wise God!
This is why 2021 will be the best year ever! And every year thereafter.