Seated on God’s Throne (2 Chronicles 9:8)

 

Friday, June 21, 2024



Psalms 121; 122; 123

2 Chronicles 9:1-12

2 Corinthians 12:14-21



Seated on God’s Throne (2 Chronicles 9:8)



The ancients had a myth about a king’s courtier who ruled as king for a day. Lifted up out of his humble position, he was seated on the throne. He enjoyed all the benefits of living a luxurious lifestyle. But his time on the throne was a time of constant stress: a sword, hanging by a mere thread, was hovering over his head the whole time. For all the pleasures of living as king, he could not bear the stress of thinking about the possibility of the sword falling and him losing it all.



Fortunately for us, the true God is not so capricious. He places rulers in authority, yes. He requires faithful obedience as a condition of that authority, yes. But he doesn’t pull it out from under us at the slightest hint of disobedience. The sword isn’t hanging by a thread. God’s love for us is a patient and caring love.



It is telling that the Queen of Sheba describes Solomon’s position as sitting on God’s throne. The throne belongs to God, and it is a gift and responsibility to Solomon. God is patient with Solomon, and you can read all about just how patient God was in Kings, which describes plenty of good reasons as to why God could have been justified in deposing him.



Just as God gave his throne to Solomon, he delegates authority to us as well. Our Lord is called the King of Kings: he is a king, and he has kings under him. We are those under-kings. He has portioned out his dominion amongst us, and we each have our own little fiefdom to rule over. Our work, our family, our lives: God delegates rule and responsibility to us, and we are to be faithful and obedient to our high king. God has placed us on his throne.



What areas of God’s kingdom have you been given authority over? How does God want you to act as his representative on these thrones?



King of Kings, thank you for placing me on your throne in this part of your kingdom. Make me a brave and wise ruler.

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