…. the Most High rules over the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom He wishes, setting over it the lowliest of men.’

— Daniel 4:17b

The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.

— Psalm 103:19

The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He drives out the enemy before you, giving the command, ‘Destroy him!’

— Deuteronomy 33:27

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

— 1 John 4:4

Then the seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and loud voices called out in heaven: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.”

— Revelation 11:15

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and salvation from Christ to you.

This world’s constant strife causes worries among nations, and people. Seeing, hearing, or reading accounts documenting a continuous flood of suffering can bring tears, stir up anxiety, or even make us feel physically sick. Does the downward trajectory of world events erase your joy or steal your hope? Perhaps you wonder, “When will this ever end?” or “Lord, where are you?” Those who trust in Jesus Christ as Savior can be assured evil will not prevail. God, who is sovereign over all, will reign victoriously for eternity. While evil seemingly relishes applause from the victory stand, the end of sin and all resulting pain is coming.

Daniel, the exiled Israelite at Babylon, received and recorded troubling visions. He saw a sequence of oppression and persecution that would last for centuries and extend to the end times. Daniel obediently recorded what he witnessed, despite the horrific future awaiting his people. Living in exile for most of his life, Daniel understood that God would never abandon him or His people. Darkness and evil permeate world history, but God will overrule His enemies to secure His victory. God’s kingdom ultimately prevails over every earthly kingdom.