The Sovereignty of God in Suffering

What is the sovereignty of God and how does it effect my life?  This is a question that comes across my mind often.  What implications does this doctrine have on my everyday life?  In Sovereignty of God, A.W. Pink explains it this way:

“The Sovereignty of God. What do we mean by this expression? We mean the supremacy of God, the kingship of God, the god-hood of God. To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that God is God. To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that He is the Most High, doing according to His will in the army of Heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth, so that none can stay His hand or say unto Him what doest Thou? (Dan. 4:35). To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that He is the Almighty, the Possessor of all power in Heaven and earth, so that none can defeat His counsels, thwart His purpose, or resist His will (Psa. 115:3). To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that He is “The Governor among the nations” (Psa. 22:28), setting up kingdoms, overthrowing empires, and determining the course of dynasties as pleaseth Him best. To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that He is the “Only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords” (1 Tim. 6:15). Such is the God of the Bible.”

As far as the implications go, I find that God’s sovereignty has a calming effect on my life.  In the midst of stressful and nearly overwhelming moments, I am reminded that God is completely in control.  Since God is completely in control and above all things, He cannot be overtaken or defeated.  If I am his child and he loves me, then it means I cannot be overwhelmed by the things of this world, life, or Satan himself.  It does not mean health and wealth as some popular “preachers” teach but providential care in the midst of any circumstance.

Today I watched a video testimony of a man named John Farese who has been completely paralyzed and bedridden for many years due to spinal muscular atrophy.  He testified to the sovereignty of God in the midst of suffering.  John states that God created him this way for the purpose of drawing him to the Lord and using his suffering as a unique perspective on the glory and sovereignty of God.  I pray that God would give me faith like John to view all the circumstances of my life as opportunities to testify about the good and sovereign will of God.  Watch and be touched.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WT_WUOyud4]