Understanding God's Sovereign Authority and Presence in Our Lives
- Ken Kalis
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
As a boy, I began to understand sovereignty and authority through my father.
He was not a king but he ruled the household and family he created.
We a;; understood his provision and his authority, and obeyd in live.
God is a King and a Father too, not just over us but over all His creation.
His throne sits atop the universe, which is like a bowl beneath Him, and all is under His control.
“Discover more on this topic on my website: https://kenkalis.com”
In today's world, where uncertainty and chaos seem to reign, understanding God's sovereign authority and presence can provide a profound sense of peace and assurance. In Bible days and even up to 1920 most countries were ruled by kings, sovereigns with absolute authority. Those kings are gone, but God is still on His throne and still sovereign.
His omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence are attributes of God that shape our faith. Combined with His goodness and love, they empower us to navigate life with confidence.
Let’s explore the significance of God's sovereignty, His authority over creation, and the comforting reality of His presence in our lives.
God's Sovereign Authority
God's sovereign authority is a key aspect of His nature. It is not just about control; it signifies His right to command and the expectation that His creation will respond in obedience.
His creation was perfect, and He gave Adam* (4004 BC- 3074 BC) and Eve* (4004 BC- ?) dominion over this ideal world. An enemy sneaked into that paradise and deceived them into sin, and so all creation was corrupted and in need of a Savior.
An asterisk* after a name means the person is in SPIRITUAL LIVES
God was a Father before He created all things and loved His Son and the people He created. He showed them the path of righteousness. A tangible example of this is the Decalogue, or Ten Commandments. In Exodus 20:1-2, God identifies Himself as the LORD who rescued Israel from Egypt. This identification lays the foundation for the commandments that follow, reinforcing His authority.
When we acknowledge God as the sovereign Lord, we realize that our obedience extends beyond mere suggestion. Scriptures such as Deuteronomy 6:4-6 and John 14:21 highlight the importance of loving and obeying God.
His authority is absolute, which means our commitment must be resolute (Romans 4:16-22). For instance, studies show that individuals who actively practice their faith report higher levels of satisfaction and purpose, illustrating the positive impact of obedience to God's authority.
Additionally, God's lordship extends beyond a mere spiritual commitment. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 10:34-38, urging us to prioritize our relationship with Him over all others. This challenging call prompts us to reflect on where our true loyalties lie, encouraging us to put God first in our lives.
Moreover, God's authority encompasses all aspects of our lives, not just the spiritual or religious ones. Paul* (5-67) states in 1 Corinthians 10:31 that whether we eat or drink, we should do everything for God's glory. This holistic perspective encourages us to integrate our faith into daily activities, reminding us that even mundane tasks can be acts of worship.
God's Sovereign Presence
Another defining aspect of God's sovereignty is His covenant presence with creation. Through Scripture, God consistently expresses His desire to have a relationship with His people. In Exodus 6:7, He promises, "I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God." This covenant relationship indicates that God is actively involved in our lives, not distant or disconnected.
God's presence serves as a source of comfort and strength. He fights our battles, blesses us, and, like any loving parent, offers correction when necessary (Amos 3:2). The promise of His presence is encapsulated beautifully in Numbers 6:27, where God instructs His people to place His name upon them, symbolizing His dwelling among them.
In the Old Testament, God's presence was manifested in the tabernacle and the temple, where He resided among His people. In the New Testament, this presence is embodied inJesus* (4BC - 30 AD), referred to as "Immanuel," meaning "God with us" (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23). Jesus lived among us, showcasing God's deep desire to be involved in our daily lives.
After Jesus' ascension, God sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within His followers, making us His temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). This indwelling presence equips us to live according to His will and provides the strength needed to face life's challenges. In fact, surveys indicate that individuals who acknowledge the Holy Spirit's role in their lives feel a deeper sense of purpose and guidance.
The Covenant with Creation
God's sovereign presence is also present in all creation. The universe exists in covenant with God, reflecting His glory and purpose. In Psalm 19:1, we read, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims His handiwork." This reminds us that God's authority and presence are visible in the world around us.
Recognizing this covenant fosters a sense of responsibility and gratitude in our interactions with the environment and its resources. As stewards of God's creation, we are called to honor Him in our actions. Research shows that individuals who engage in environmental stewardship report higher levels of fulfillment and connection to their faith, highlighting the intersection of responsibility and worship.
Moreover, finding God's presence in creation invites us to experience Him in fresh and profound ways. Whether it's the beauty of a setting sun, the intricate details of a flower, or the vastness of the ocean, these elements each declare God's majesty and sovereignty. For example, taking a moment to appreciate a nature walk can enhance mindfulness and deepen our spiritual connection.
Embracing Divine Authority and Presence
Understanding God's sovereign authority and presence is vital for a vibrant faith journey. His authority calls us to obedience and reminds us to live according to His will. At the same time, His presence provides comfort, assuring us that we are never alone.
As we navigate the twists and turns of life, let's remember that God is both sovereign and present. He demands our loyalty and obedience, while also walking alongside us, empowering us to fulfill His purpose. Embracing these profound truths can transform our perspective, guiding us to live with confidence and purpose in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
In every moment, let’s seek to honor God’s authority and cherish His presence. When we do, we allow these truths to shape our lives and relationships, leading us toward fulfillment and a deeper sense of meaning.
“Discover more on this topic on my website: https://kenkalis.com”
***********************************
God is Sovereign whether you acknowledge Him or not.
What thinking person would not accept the love and rule of One so infinetly good?
One who has been deceived by the devil and blinded by sin.
God wants you anyway. How do you know that?
He gave His Son to die for you, to wash your sins away on the cross of Calvary.
************************
Just As I Am Listen
Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, Thy love unknown
Hath broken every barrier down;
Now, to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, of that free love
The breadth, length, depth, and height to prove,
Here for a season, then above,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!
Words: Charlotte Elliott, 1835;
When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Mark 2:17