God’s Activity in Nations

Exploring Divine Sovereignty, Righteousness, and Purpose

God’s involvement in the rise and fall of nations has been a central theme throughout history. It is prominently featured in theological and scriptural interpretations. Many believers hold that God is the ultimate ruler and creator. They believe He actively influences the prosperity, destiny, and spiritual orientation of nations. He calls them to recognize His sovereignty and worship Him. Below, we delve deeper into this profound concept and its implications for humanity.

Exploring Divine Sovereignty, Righteousness, and Purpose in Psalm 22:27-28 

“All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord. All the families of the nations will bow down before him. For dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations.” 

Psalm 22:27-28 is a powerful passage of scripture. It offers a profound glimpse into the sovereignty, righteousness, and eternal purpose of God. This extends over the nations of the earth. These verses originate from a psalm. The psalm begins with expressions of suffering. It crescendos into declarations of trust and divine dominion. In this exploration, we delve into the deeper significance of these words. We uncover their theological weight. We discover what they mean for humanity. 

God’s Sovereignty Over Nations 

Psalm 22:28 explicitly proclaims, “dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.” This statement about divine sovereignty is central in biblical theology. It portrays God as the supreme ruler. His authority transcends human governance. The concept of sovereignty in this verse underscores that the rise and fall of nations are not arbitrary. They are part of God’s ultimate design. 

Throughout human history, kings and empires have wielded power. Yet, even the mightiest rulers are controlled by the overarching authority of the Creator. The verse reminds us that no nation, regardless of its strength or influence, exists outside God’s control. His dominion is not limited to a specific people or region. It extends over every corner of the earth. It unites all humanity under His eternal rule. 

This truth serves as a call to humility for nations and their leaders. Human ambition and ingenuity often drive the pursuit of power. Yet, Psalm 22:27-28 reminds us that all authority is derived from God. Our stewardship of it must reflect His character of justice and compassion. Recognizing God’s sovereignty encourages nations to align their actions with His righteous principles, striving for governance that honors Him. 

The Call to Worship 

The psalmist’s declaration presents a vision of global worship. It shows the acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. This prophetic statement reflects God’s ultimate purpose for humanity: to bring all people into a relationship of reverence and worship. 

The phrase “all the ends of the earth” emphasizes the universality of God’s call. It is not confined to one culture, language, or ethnicity but extends to every nation and family. This inclusivity is a recurring theme throughout scripture, demonstrating that God’s plan is for all creation to glorify Him. In Isaiah 45:23, a similar vision is echoed: “Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear.” 

This call to worship is not merely an external act but a transformation of the heart. Turning to the Lord involves repentance, faith, and a renewed commitment to live according to His will. For nations, this means fostering societies that mirror divine values—justice, mercy, and love. When all families and nations bow before God, they acknowledge His rightful place as Creator and King. This act creates a foundation for peace and unity. 

Righteousness as the Foundation of God’s Rule 

God’s sovereignty is deeply intertwined with His righteousness. Unlike human rulers, whose authority is marred by corruption or self-interest, God’s dominion stands apart. It is characterized by perfect justice and goodness. Psalm 22:28’s assurance is that God “rules over the nations.” This implies not only power but also a moral and ethical governance. It seeks the flourishing of all creation. 

The righteousness of God’s rule is a recurring theme in scripture. In Psalm 89:14, we read, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.” This verse illustrates a divine government. Compassion and integrity are paramount, setting a standard for human authorities to emulate. When nations embrace righteousness, they align themselves with God’s character, resulting in blessings and prosperity. 

Righteousness is not merely a passive quality but an active force that transforms societies. It addresses systemic injustices, uplifts the marginalized, and cultivates a culture of respect and dignity. For nations to thrive, their policies, institutions, and leaders must reflect the moral clarity and fairness that define God’s rule. Psalm 22:27-28 challenges both individuals and governments to pursue righteousness as an essential aspect of their relationship with the Divine. 

The Purpose of God’s Sovereignty 

God’s sovereignty over nations is not an end in itself. It serves a greater purpose: the fulfillment of His redemptive plan. The psalmist envisions families turning to the Lord. This vision points to a future where humanity is reconciled with God and with one another. This purpose is beautifully articulated in Ephesians 1:10. It speaks of God’s plan “to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.” 

The ultimate aim of God’s sovereignty is the restoration of creation. Through His rule, He seeks to undo the effects of sin. He aims to establish a kingdom where love, peace, and righteousness reign. This purpose is not confined to spiritual matters but encompasses every aspect of life—political, social, and economic. Nations have a role to play in this divine mission, serving as instruments of God’s justice and mercy. 

One of the most profound expressions of this purpose is found in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. As the Messiah, He embodies God’s sovereignty, righteousness, and love, offering salvation to all nations. His teachings challenge us to live as citizens of God’s kingdom, prioritizing His values over worldly ambitions. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 encapsulates this calling. It urges believers to make disciples of all nations. It encourages them to contribute to God’s redemptive work. 

God’s Intervention in History 

Psalm 22:27-28 also invites us to reflect on the ways God actively intervenes in the affairs of nations. From miraculous deliverances to prophetic warnings, scripture is replete with examples of God shaping history to fulfill His purposes. The story of the Exodus shows how God liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. This is a powerful testament to His sovereignty and justice. Similarly, the rise and fall of empires are foretold in books like Daniel. These events reveal His hand in guiding the course of history. 

God’s interventions are not always dramatic; they often occur through the actions of faithful individuals and communities. Leaders who seek His wisdom make an impact. Citizens who uphold His principles play a crucial role. Institutions that promote justice contribute significantly to the unfolding of His plan. Psalm 22:27-28 encourages us to recognize these moments of divine activity. We are prompted to join in God’s work as agents of His kingdom. 

 

Conclusion

God’s activity in nations is a testament to His sovereignty, righteousness, and eternal plan for humanity. He guides their rise and fall. He blesses those who uphold His principles. He calls all nations to worship Him. Through these actions, He reveals His profound involvement in the world. Whether through intervention, covenants, or the ministry of Jesus, God’s hand is clear in shaping the destiny of nations. As believers, recognizing and honoring this divine activity inspires faith. It brings about humility. It leads to a commitment to spreading His truth across the earth.

Psalm 22:27-28 offers a timeless reminder of God’s sovereignty, righteousness, and purpose for the nations. It encourages us to see beyond the transient nature of human power. We are urged to align our lives with the eternal rule of the Creator. By acknowledging God’s dominion, we pursue righteousness. Embracing His redemptive plan allows us to take part in a story that transcends borders and generations. 

As we reflect on these verses, let us be inspired to live as representatives of God’s kingdom. Let us contribute to a world that honors His sovereignty and reflects His love. In doing so, we fulfill the vision of Psalm 22. All the ends of the earth remember and turn to the Lord. All families of nations bow before Him. For truly, “the kingdom is the Lord’s, and He rules over the nations.” 

“But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith. Pray in the Holy Spirit.” (Jude 1:20)

May the love of God shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Amen.

Minister A. Francine Green