We stand in awe, O God, that in your freedom you do all that you please and all that you plan.
“Whatever I please, I do, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps.” (Psalm 135:6)
“I work all things according to the counsel of my will.” (Ephesians 1:11)
“I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’” (Isaiah 46:9–10)
We marvel, O God, that you share this total authority and rule completely with your Son.
“I have given all authority in heaven and on earth to my Son, Jesus.” (Matthew 28:18)
“I love my Son and have given all things into his hand.” (John 3:35)
“I have given my Son authority over all flesh.” (John 17:2)
“I have put all things in subjection under my Son’s feet—all things except myself.” (1 Corinthians 15:27)
“I raised my Son from the dead and seated him at my right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion. … I put all things under his feet.” (Ephesians 1:20–22)
“I welcomed my Son into heaven. He is at my right hand, with angels, authorities and powers subject to him.” (1 Peter 3:22)
We submit with reverence to you, O God, because, through your Son, you remove and install the rulers of the world.
“Wisdom and might belong to me. I change times and seasons; I remove kings and set up kings.” (Daniel 2:20–21)
“I loose the bonds of kings and bind a waistcloth on their hips.” (Job 12:18)
“I sent my angel and struck Herod down, because he did not give me glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.” (Acts 12:23)
Indeed, O God, you not only raise rulers and put them down; you govern all their deeds in every age.
“The king’s heart is a stream of water in my hand, says the LORD; I turn it wherever I will.” (Proverbs 21:1)
“I will put an end to the wealth of Egypt, by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. … I will break the yoke of Egypt, and her proud might shall come to an end. … I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon and put my sword in his hand, but I will break the arms of Pharaoh.” (Ezekiel 30:10, Ezekiel 30.18″>18, Ezekiel 30.24″>24)
