The world seems to be a dangerous place just now. Those with the greatest power are positioning themselves, taking counsel together, and preparing their plans. And all with the same end in mind – to acquire more. Not for those they represent, but for themselves.
It’s only ever for themselves.
But ancient wisdom suggests that we should ask ourselves a question. And that question is ‘Why?’
Not because we can’t understand their evil intentions, for they are surely all too obvious. Not least because, if we’re honest enough to admit it, we harbour similar desires in the darkest recesses of our own hearts too. And it is only because we lack the opportunity to express them in the way that some are able to, that we manage to persuade others – and perhaps ourselves – that we are better on the inside than we really are.
No – the real reason we should be asking why the nations are scheming is simply this: it’s pointless for them to do so, because they plot in vain.
And the reason I am so confident of this is that ancient wisdom tells me it is so. This is not to suggest that the situation we appear to be heading towards isn’t frightening. Not at all – but as those with influence throw their not inconsiderable weight around we need only to look to heaven for all the reassurance we need. For if we do, the one who we will see there isn’t anxiously pacing around the room wondering what to do. On the contrary He is seated on a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of His robe, a symbol of His supreme authority, fills the temple [Isaiah 6:1] And, what’s more, He is laughing – holding those who ultimately are opposing Him in derision.
But He won’t be laughing for ever.
Because He is angry at their posturing and will speak to them in His wrath. And tell them what is beyond any doubt. That Jesus, His son, is King – to whom He has given all authority, both in heaven and on the earth [Matthew 28:18] And He will have the final word as the sovereign Lord of the Universe.
But whilst those who are currently making all the noise should indeed be terrified of the risen Lord Jesus they oppose – whose wrath is justly kindled by their global arrogance – those who gladly take refuge in Him are blessed, and will find that He will never break a bruised reed or quench a faintly burning wick. More than that they will watch as He establishes justice on the earth. [Isaiah 42:3]
So have no regard for those who scoff and speak with malice, those who loftily threaten oppression [Psalm 73:8] and those, in whose nostrils, is only breath – for of what account are they? [Isaiah 2:22] Look instead to the Lord who reigns – for He is robed in majesty, He has put on strength as His belt, and His everlasting throne is firmly established [Psalm 93:1-2].
And when He eventually comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne forever [Matthew 25:31].
Amen.
Some musings 