God’s Invisible Hand?
Just a short two weeks ago the world teetered on the brink of a missile strike against Syria. Following the inhuman use of sarin gas to murder innocent men, women and children our President labeled this a moral outrage and announced our intent to administer severe consequences for this violation of international human rights.
Feelings were mixed among the nation, abhorring the senseless deaths of so many yet hesitant to reengage in the role of the world’s policeman.
Believer’s prayed including over 10,000 people who prayed and fasted with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s square on Saturday, September 7th. Imploring God’s mercy and wisdom, yet peace seemed humanly hopeless. But God.
Monday, September 9th, Secretary of State John Kerry makes an offhand remark in answer to a reporter’s question. He suggests a seemingly impossible and improbable solution to the crisis. The drumbeat for military action marches on. Then with a surprising “twist” of allies Russian Prime Minister Putin quickly affirms the impossible and Syria, grasping an opportunity to divert military action, agrees to negotiate. President Obama welcomes the diversion. The fever of war diminishes.
Such unlikely cooperation between Russia, Syria and the United States causes me to wonder. Might this surprising turn of events be evidence of the invisible and unseen hand of God who rules all mankind? The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord like channels of water; he turns it wherever he wants. (Proverbs 21:1) Might we not give praise to a God who answers fervent prayer?
Whatever your political view, the unexpected and timely turn of events causes me to honor our sovereign Lord who moves in the affairs of men and answers prayer. He rules still over the affairs of men and that gives me hope. How about you?
Gwynne Johnson
Gwynne Johnson currently serves on the Board of Entrust, Inc., an international education and training mission where she authored the Entrust curriculum, Developing a Discerning Heart. She recently served as Co-Chair of the training project, Christian Women in Partnership, Russia and as Senior Director of Women's Ministry at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas. Gwynne has a M.A. in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. She currently lives in Huntsville, Texas with her husband of 58 years, Don. She works part-time in her daughter and granddaughter's bakery "The Best Box Ever," where she gets paid in cookies.
3 Comments
Dianne Miller
God intervened again
I certainly agree with you that it looks like God intervened to divert an imminent and seeminly certain confrontation. It also seems like the Pope's call to prayer and fasting for peace was answered (even if temporary) by our gracious God. I only regret I wasn't part of that group praying and fasting on Sept 7 in Rome or even in Dallas. This is, for me, a renewed conviction to believe that God answers prayer as He accomplishes His purposes in history. thanks for the connection
Belle Unruh
Syria
Yes, I believe God rules over the nations. I've been praying about this conflict since it began and I'm so thankful there will probably be a peaceful solution.
Margaret Swearingen
Thank you in advance
This has been my proverb for this 2014 electon —so many beheadings– May
God continue to overrule until He comes to rule.