“Then the people of Israel were divided into two parts: half of the people followed Tibni the son of Ginath, to make him king; the other half followed Omri. But the people who followed Omri prevailed over the people who followed Tibni the son of Ginath. And Tibni died and Omri became king” (1 Kings 16:21-22).
Our world is incredibly divided. There are wars, rumors of wars, and protests both in Israel and the West. The fires of unrest are rapidly spreading, and there’s no place on earth where we can run and hide. But reading about Israel’s history in the Book of Kings, I find comfort. Most of Israel’s biblical history was also filled with conspiracies, coups, political unrest, self-centered rulers, and a people scattered to the wind without a godly shepherd to lead them. But in and through all the craziness, the God of Israel was still enthroned in heaven, and his plan of redemption for Israel and the nations was being accomplished.
As we are rapidly approaching the end of an age (at least if it feels that way), we must constantly remind ourselves God is not biting his nails in heaven, worried he has completely lost control. Although there is no place on earth where we can shelter ourselves from all the unrest, we will always have a mighty fortress and an unfailing bulwark in heaven!
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah…. ‘Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’ The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah” (Psa 46:1-3, 10-11).
