MONDAY, APRIL 2
Daniel 1:2
Romans 8:28

“… all things work
together for good …”

WHO IS “THE LORD”?

“And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand …” (Dan 1:2). Who is this “Lord”? The Hebrew name used here is Adonai, not Jehovah. “Adonai speaks of God as supreme master. The significance of using this name here is to say that, though outward signs did not seem to show it, God was the master of this situation, as Jehoiakim was given into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar. It was not Nebuchadnezzar’s strength nor Jehoiakim’s weakness that really decided the matter, but God’s good pleasure. Kings like to think of themselves sufficient as rulers, but they are as much under the supreme control of God as any person. There is comfort in knowing that no governmental authority can go beyond the bounds permitted by God” (Leon Woods).

Too often we set out to accomplish our own plans, goals, dreams, and desires. The sovereign God who controls the affairs of nations also controls our affairs. He has a plan for our lives which is tailor-made to the way He has designed us. He knows our frame. What a comfort to know that God is there and that He is in control whether it be the death of a loved one, a broken engagement, or a flat tyre. God tells us exactly what to do when we are hurt. “And call upon me in the day of trouble …” (Ps 50:15). That is, “Tell me all about it.” He promises to help you. He has an incomparably great reputation for not breaking His promises, whether His covenant promises to Israel or His promises to believers today who simply take Him at His Word that those who believe with childlike simplicity of faith in His Son Jesus Christ, not simply will have eternal life, but have it beginning now (John 5:24). Only Adonai, “the Supreme Master,” can guarantee this to sinful men in a changing world.

THOUGHT: It is good, when trials come, to keep a finger on the promise and an eye on the Promiser.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to know that Thou art always in control and therefore the outcome is assured.