May 9, 2022

How Big Is God?

Daily Devotional2 Minutes

“This is what the LORD says to Cyrus His anointed, whom I have taken by the right hand, to subdue nations … to open doors before him so that gates will not be shut … I have given you a title of honor though you have not known Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.” – Isaiah 45:1-5 NASB

When Nebuchadnezzar died, his vast Babylonian empire seemed completely secure. Yet just 22 years later in 539 BC, the Persians conquered his invincible kingdom under the leadership of Cyrus.

This was a monumental moment in human history. But the Bible tells us that God was the real cause of this victory. Cyrus did not know God, but He called him to accomplish His purposes. God was demonstrating that He was controlling world events. Not Cyrus.

God declared that He alone had made the earth and created people. He was acting “that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no one besides Me” (vs. 6).

One of Cyrus’ first acts after conquering Babylon was to authorize the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Why? Because God “stirred up the spirit of Cyrus” to fulfill His word (Ezra 1:1).

God was demonstrating that He was bigger than any force on earth. Bigger than Babylon and Nebuchadnezzar. Bigger than Persia or Cyrus. Bigger than any god. Any army. Any problem.

The problems we face can seem huge! It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. At times like these, we need to remember that we serve the God who changed the world through Cyrus who did what people thought was impossible.

Commit the problems you face to Him. Don’t limit God. With Him, nothing is impossible!

 

Reflection Question: What seemingly huge, impossible task are you facing right now?

Prayer
Father, I commit these needs to You: ________. Thank You for the answers! You are Lord over all things. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Isaiah 45

Prayer
Father, I commit these needs to You: ________. Thank You for the answers! You are Lord over all things. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Isaiah 45