Finding peace in God's control

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it's easy to find ourselves overwhelmed by circumstances beyond our control. We may look at global events, personal challenges, or looming threats and wonder, "What is God doing?" or even, "Is God doing anything at all?" These questions are not new to our generation. In fact, they echo through the centuries, back to ancient times when nations faced existential threats and God's people grappled with their place in a tumultuous world.

The story of the ancient kingdom of Cush, located in what is now Ethiopia and parts of Sudan, provides a powerful lens through which we can examine our own responses to life's challenges. Faced with the menacing expansion of the Assyrian Empire, the people of Cush found themselves in a panic. They sent envoys far and wide, desperately seeking alliances to protect themselves from the impending danger. Their frantic activity is described poetically as "whirring wings," evoking the image of insects buzzing about in distress.

How often do we find ourselves in a similar state? When faced with problems that seem insurmountable, our natural inclination is often to scramble for solutions, exhausting ourselves in the process. We may reach out in all directions, hoping to find some security or assurance in our own efforts or in the support of others.

Yet in the midst of this frenzy, we hear a striking message from God: "I will remain quiet and will look from my dwelling place, like shimmering heat in the sunshine, like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest." This imagery paints a picture of serene confidence. While the world below may be in chaos, God remains unperturbed, fully in control and aware of His plans.

This divine perspective challenges us to reconsider our own reactions to life's trials. When we find ourselves asking, "God, why aren't you doing something?" perhaps we need to pause and recognize that God's apparent inaction may be a sign of His supreme confidence rather than indifference or absence.

The truth is, God is always at work, even when we can't see it. His work often begins in the unseen realm of our hearts, slowly transforming us from the inside out. Just as it takes time for a fruit to ripen or for a flower to blossom, the work God does in us may not be immediately visible. Yet, it is constantly progressing, shaping us into the image of Christ.

Moreover, God's work extends beyond our individual lives to the world around us. Sometimes, to bring about change in our circumstances, God must first work in the hearts of others. This process can take years, just as our own spiritual growth is a gradual journey. Understanding this can help us cultivate patience and trust in God's timing.

The prophecy concerning Cush reminds us that God sees the bigger picture. While the Assyrians seemed unstoppable, God already knew their fate. He declared that they would be cut down like branches, left for birds of prey and wild animals. This vivid imagery reminds us that no earthly power, no matter how formidable, can stand against God's ultimate plans.

Even more remarkably, the prophecy concludes with a vision of the people of Cush – once fearsome and idolatrous – bringing gifts to the Lord. This dramatic transformation speaks to the far-reaching nature of God's redemptive work. It challenges us to expand our vision and believe that God can bring about radical change, even in situations or people that seem hopeless.

So how do we apply these ancient truths to our modern lives? Here are a few key takeaways:

1. Remember God's power and knowledge: In moments of uncertainty, remind yourself that God is all-powerful and all-knowing. He's not wringing His hands in worry; He's calmly overseeing His plans.

2. Look for God's hidden work: When it seems like nothing is happening, consider that God may be working beneath the surface, in your heart or in the lives of others around you.

3. Trust in God's timing: Understanding that spiritual growth and circumstantial change often take time can help us cultivate patience and perseverance.

4. Maintain an eternal perspective: Like the prophecy about Cush, try to see beyond immediate circumstances to the bigger picture of God's redemptive plan.

5. Find peace in God's control: Instead of frantically trying to solve everything yourself, learn to rest in the knowledge that God "has got this."

The next time you find yourself in a situation that's beyond your control, causing you to "freak out," pause and remember the image of God remaining quiet and watchful. Let this picture remind you that no matter how chaotic things may seem from your perspective, God remains in perfect control.

Our challenge is to align our hearts with this truth, to find stillness in the midst of life's storms. It's not about denying the reality of our struggles, but about choosing to trust in a God who is greater than any challenge we face. As we learn to rest in His control, we can experience a peace that surpasses understanding, even in the most turbulent times.

May we all grow in our ability to say, even in the face of daunting circumstances, "God, you've got this." For in that declaration of trust, we find not just comfort, but the strength to face whatever comes our way with confidence and hope.