Pillars

He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifeth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and He hath set the world upon them.
1 Samuel 2: 7-8

Advancement and abasement are both from Him. He brings some low and lifts up others, humbles the proud and gives grace and honour to the lowly. Promotion comes not by chance, but from the counsel of God, which often prefers those that were very unlikely and that men thought were unworthy.

A reason is given for all these dispensations which obliges us to acquiesce (to agree or consent quietly, without protest)in them, how surprising soever they are: For the pillars of the earth are the Lord's. (1) If we understand this literally, it intimates God's almighty power, which cannot be controlled. He upholds the whole creation, founded the earth, and still sustains it by the word of His power.

(2) But, if we understand it figuratively, it intimates His incontestable sovereignty, which cannot be disputed. The princes and great ones of the earth, the directors of states and governments, are the pillars of the earth. On these hinges the affairs of the world seem to turn, but they are the Lord's.
(Matthew Henry)

I know,these are strange verses for me to focus on. I can get very caught up in the "affairs" of the world, that I lose sight of who really is spinning the whole thing. I take this verse both literally and figuratively-as Matthew Henry suggested. I find comfort in the fact that although man seems to be in control over the affairs of government--God is really there. No, God is not a dictator, we were created with a free will; but God does respond to His children.

On my last post a comment was made that it's hard not to fear whether life or death will approach the ones you love. I have the same fears--but since I also have Christ in my heart, I can rest that He will provide--no matter the circumstance. Christ never promised you wouldn't have fears or anxiety--He provides us with the promise that He would never leave us or forsake us.

Sorry for the strange tone the past few days. Little Samuel is growing, so we will see what's in the future. I'm also starting another Beth Moore Bible Study next Wednesday; I'm excited!