God's Sovereign Glory Displayed

In this remarkable passage from Ezekiel, the Lord declares His sovereign purpose in the events that will unfold in the future. Through the prophet, God reveals a coming conflict—a great battle in which nations will rise against Israel. Yet, in the midst of these terrifying events, God speaks a word of supreme confidence. His purpose is to magnify Himself, sanctify Himself, and make His name known among the nations.

At first glance, we might find this language challenging. The idea of God magnifying and sanctifying Himself may seem foreign to us, but this reveals a vital truth about who God is. Our God is passionate about His glory, and He is determined to display His holiness in a way that leaves no doubt in the hearts of men and women across the earth. God does not seek glory because He is needy, but because He is worthy. His glory is not the product of human approval; it is inherent to His very nature. When God acts to magnify His name, it is always for the good of His people and the fulfillment of His perfect purposes.

God’s Sovereign Control

In Ezekiel 38, the nations gather against God’s people, seemingly poised for triumph. But in the midst of this, God demonstrates His sovereign control over history. The enemy may seem to have the upper hand, but it is God who directs the course of events. He allows these things to happen so that His power and holiness might be clearly displayed.

This reminds us that no matter what events unfold in our world, no matter how chaotic or uncertain the times may seem, God is always in control. He is sovereign over nations, rulers, and history itself. There is no force in this world that can thwart His plans. What might appear to us as moments of defeat or hopelessness are often opportunities for God to reveal His majesty and holiness in ways we could never have imagined.

God’s Glory Among the Nations

At the heart of this passage is the truth that God is not just the God of Israel, but the God of all nations. His purpose extends beyond one people group or one geographical region. He will make Himself known to many nations. This truth should give us both confidence and urgency. Confidence, because we know that God’s glory will be displayed and that His kingdom will not fail. Urgency, because we are called to be part of His mission in making His name known among the nations.

The glory of God is not something to be confined to our own personal experiences of faith. It is meant to be proclaimed and displayed to the whole world. Every event in history, every moment in our lives, is an opportunity for God to show Himself to be the Lord—the one true God who is worthy of all praise.

A Call to Trust

As believers, we are called to trust in God’s sovereign plan, even when the world seems to be falling apart. Our hope is not in human strength or wisdom, but in the power and glory of God. His purposes will be accomplished, and His name will be glorified. This truth should fill us with peace and assurance. We can rest knowing that God is at work, even when we don’t fully understand what He is doing.

Let us then live with confidence, knowing that our God is sovereign, and His glory will be displayed. May our lives be a testimony to His holiness, and may we be faithful in making His name known among the nations.