In the book of Revelation, we find a striking statement: “For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish His purpose by agreeing to hand over to the beast their royal authority, until God’s words are fulfilled” (Revelation 17:17, NIV). This passage reminds us that God’s sovereignty is unmatched. Even when humanity acts in ways that seem contrary to righteousness, God can use these actions to fulfill His divine purposes. This principle is not unique to Revelation; the Bible is filled with examples of God orchestrating events, using individuals, nations, and circumstances to carry out His will. Let’s explore some of these instances.
1. Pharaoh’s Heart in Exodus
One of the most well-known examples of God’s sovereign intervention is found in the story of Moses and Pharaoh. When Moses demanded that Pharaoh let the Israelites go, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened. Exodus 9:12 says, “But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the Lord had said to Moses.” While Pharaoh’s resistance led to great suffering, it ultimately displayed God’s power through the plagues and the deliverance of Israel.
2. Cyrus, King of Persia
Another compelling example is Cyrus, the king of Persia. Isaiah prophesied about him over a century before his birth, calling him God’s anointed: “This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him” (Isaiah 45:1). Cyrus, a pagan king, was instrumental in allowing the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-3). God used Cyrus to accomplish His purpose, even though Cyrus did not know Him.
3. Joseph’s Journey to Egypt
The story of Joseph provides another striking illustration of God’s plans at work. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, an act of betrayal rooted in jealousy. However, Joseph later recognized God’s hand in the situation: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph’s journey from slave to ruler in Egypt was orchestrated by God to preserve His people during a severe famine.
4. Judas Iscariot’s Betrayal
Even in the darkest moments, God’s purposes prevail. Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus was a pivotal moment in the salvation story. Though Judas acted out of greed and deception, his actions fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, leading to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Acts 2:23 says, “This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross.”
5. The Early Church and Persecution
In the book of Acts, persecution scattered the early Christians. While this may have seemed like a setback, God used it to spread the gospel. Acts 8:4 notes, “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” What appeared to be a tragedy became an opportunity for exponential growth in the church.
Lessons for Today
- Trust in God’s Sovereignty: When circumstances seem chaotic or even unjust, remember that God can use every situation for His purposes. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
- Surrender to His Will: Understanding that God’s plans are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9) encourages us to submit our desires and ambitions to Him.
- Be Faithful in Your Role: Like Joseph, Esther, or the apostles, we may not always see the bigger picture. Yet, faithfulness in our present circumstances can have eternal significance.
- Pray for Discernment: Ask God to reveal how He is working in your life and to guide your actions so you align with His purposes.
