KNOW THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL Isaiah 45:7-8

Introduction Challenges in our lives Some may ask, “Where are you Lord?”, “Do you care?”, “Are you still there?” Message on trust in the Lord, not suffering

Isaiah 45:7-8 … from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none besides me; I am the LORD, and there is no other. I form light and create darkness, I make well-being and create calamity, I am the LORD, who does all these things. "Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness; let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit; let the earth cause them both to sprout; I the LORD have created it.

Creation in Chaos When God’s plan is clear but one disobeys Adam’s Fall ◦ Adam’s plans & dreams are foiled by sin ◦ Adam was lost ◦ But God was in control

Israel by the Red Sea When God’s plan is clear, but trepidations in obedience Children of Israel in danger ◦ Exo 14:13-14 And Moses said to the people, "Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. (14) The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent."

When Your Back is Against the Sea know that God is in control Follow God - Fear not & Stand firm Let God work, see God work Seek synergy with the Mighty God and walk!

Jesus’ Life & Death Decision When God’s plan is clear, and followed Jesus’ life and death decision: Facing the cross ◦ Luk 22:41-44 And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, (42) saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." (43) And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. (44) And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

The challenges of submission Jesus’ (and should be our) decision: ◦ To walk in God’s will ◦ With the help of angel (Holy Spirit) – God knows! ◦ Regardless of the outcome or what our own desires ◦ An exercise of obedience in faith Submission takes ◦ Living in faith ◦ Courage and determination

The Lord reigns The basis of our trust and obedience ◦ God knows – our situation and welfare ◦ God is in control

Conclusion David’s psalm: ◦ Psa 16:2 I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." Christ’s prayer at His most desperate moment: ◦ Psa 16:10-11 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. (11) You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy