The admonitions of the Lord are to be taken seriously. God warned the people of Israel time after time that obedience would result in blessings and disobedience would result in destruction. While Solomon was a wise ruler, Rehoboam was foolish; Jeroboam was foolish. Rehoboam’s actions, though, followed the will of the Lord to fulfill prophecy. Two kingdoms, Israel and Judah, resulted.

As I read the Old Testament, I am often amazed how God has all events planned in accordance with his will. He uses evil plots, disobedience and revolt to accomplish his purposes. I cannot fathom all that God does and the way he does them. It all works out for the good of the gospel. 

How can it be that loyalty and revolt are used by God? His ways are not our ways. He is beyond our understanding. He does all things that men will revere him (Ecclesiastes 3:14). God raises up godly leaders and ungodly leaders. God rewards obedience; he punishes disobedience. Both are done in his time according to his will.

In the meantime, we can trust God because his will is for our best. He has all things under his control and the outcome will be perfect. 

Father, I want to submit to your will. Help me trust you for the victory. Amen.

Rev. Steve Ruberg