War in Our World

We all cringe when we see on TV the terrible things that are happening in our world today.  The war that is going on in Ukraine including the bombing of civilian homes, the people (women and children) scurrying to try to get out of the country, the people staying in underground subways to avoid bombs and missiles, and the thousands of refugees fleeing for their lives.  What a tearful sight to see orphanage children being displaced, the bombing of a children’s hospital, civilians being killed and others begging for food and water, with many needing shelter, and safety.

Whatever is happening in our world – be it good or bad – does not mean that God is sitting on the sidelines wringing his hands because the good isn’t good enough or the bad is too terrible.  We need to remember that nothing is beyond God’s control.  He is sovereign.  There is nothing that happens that is outside of His influence and authority.  God has no limitations, and He has the right to govern His creation as He sees best.  The Bible says that He “works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11).  It also says, “God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne” (Psalm 47:8).  It further states that “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19).

Despite the calamity we see happening in Ukraine, God is in control.  He is in charge.  However, we wonder if there is anything we can do.  The psalmist asked this same question when he said, “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3).  Yes, there is much that we can do.  Many people are already responding to help organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse which is providing medical and other assistance.  We can rest in the fact that God is sovereign, even though we don’t understand why these atrocities are taking place.  In addition, we can pray.  The Bible affirms that prayer is efficient action when it says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). We should pray for a quick end to the conflict, for safety of innocent people, and for those who are Christians who may be persecuted under the aggressor. Are you resting in God’s sovereignty?  Maybe all of us need to get to work on our knees before God.