As we reflect on the outgoing year 2024, we are filled with awe and wonder at God’s faithfulness. We pray that in the coming year, we may continue to grow in our faith, love, and obedience to Him. May His name be glorified in all that we do. Amen.
34 “For who has known the mind of the LORD? Or who has become His counselor?”
35 “Or who has first given to Him And it shall be repaid to him?”
36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen. Romans 11:33-36
This December, the last month of 2024, we will delve into a profound statement from the Apostle Paul, found in Romans 11:36. This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s sovereignty and His ultimate purpose for all creation. It serves as a powerful reminder of our dependence on Him and the glory that should be directed towards Him.
Paul is overwhelmed by God’s mercy, wisdom, and knowledge. His judgments and ways are unsearchable and past finding out. In the Greek text, this can also be read “His ways are incapable of being tracked by footprints.” God truly does work in mysterious ways.
Isaiah 40:28—Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainted not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding.
I. Of Him
The first part of the verse declares, “For of Him are all things.” This phrase emphasizes God as the source of all existence. He is the Creator, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. As Psalm 148:5 proclaims, “Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and the heavens.”
Everything that exists, both seen and unseen, has its origin in God. He spoke the universe into being, and by His power, it continues to sustain. From the vast expanse of the cosmos to the intricate details of a single cell, all bear the mark of His divine craftsmanship.
II. Through Him
The second part of the verse states, “Through Him are all things.” This phrase highlights God’s sustaining power and providential care. He is not merely a distant Creator but actively involved in the affairs of the universe. As Colossians 1:17 declares, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”
God’s sustaining power is evident in the intricate balance of nature, the intricate workings of the human body, and the intricate tapestry of human history. He is the one who upholds all things, providing for our needs and guiding our steps.
III. To Him
The final part of the verse says, “To Him are all things.” This phrase emphasizes God’s ultimate purpose for all creation. He is the goal and destination of all things.
As Revelation 4:11 declares, “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”
Everything that God has created, including humanity, has been designed to bring Him glory. Our lives, our talents, and our possessions are all meant to be used for His honor and praise. When we live our lives for God’s glory, we fulfill the purpose for which we were created.
Conclusion
Paul concluded that God is the first cause, the effective cause, and the final cause of everything (vs.36). Everything revolves around the Lord. Romans 11:36 is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, His sustaining power, and His ultimate purpose for all creation. As we contemplate the depths of this verse, let us be filled with awe and wonder at the greatness of our God. Let us also be inspired to live our lives in a way that brings Him glory.
Do you know Him and seek Him? If not, trust Him today.
PRAYER POINTS
Praising God’s Greatness: Revelation 4:11: “‘You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.’” Prayer Point: Lord, we praise You for Your infinite greatness and Your love for us. May Your name be glorified forevermore.
Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty: Psalm 103:19: “The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules overall.” Prayer Point: Lord, we acknowledge Your supreme authority over all things. Help us to submit to Your perfect will.
Recognizing God’s Sustaining Power: Colossians 1:17: “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Prayer Point: Lord, thank You for Your constant care and provision in the year 2024. Help us to trust in Your sustaining power, even during trials.
Living for God’s Glory: 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Prayer Point: Lord, help lives for Your glory. Give us the strength to resist temptation and to seek Your will in all things.
Seeking God’s Will: Jeremiah 29:11: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Prayer Point: Lord, guide us in discerning Your will for our lives. Help us to be obedient to Your Word and to follow Your leading.
Welcome to December 2024, the month of “To Him be the glory forever. Amen.” Like the Apostle Paul, we may say with heartfelt conviction, “To Him be glory forever. Amen.”
Yours in the Lord,
Pastor Lillian Haastrup
