Proverbs 21: The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord as the rivers of water, he turns it whithersoever he will.
And we are never to believe that God is far removed from the processes that bring heads of nations upon the stage of action. God is closely intertwined in the most extensive way, in all that takes place upon the earth and especially will this be the case as the time for our final redemption draws near. Therefore, as we look forward to the new year, it is with great urgency that we’re to seek to understand the shaping of events, in the light of what God has told us will be coming upon the face of the earth.
[Prophets & Kings pp 499] In the annals of human history, the growth of nations, the rise and fall of empires, appear as if dependent on the will and prowess of man; the shaping of events seems, to a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in the word of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold, above, behind, and through all the play and counterplay of human interest and power and passions, the agencies of the All-merciful One, silently, patiently working out the counsels of His own will.
Indeed, it might be that all of the actors are already on the stage, only waiting for the curtains of last day events to be drawn aside. The world has become a decidedly more dangerous place, and who knows what will transpire with the changing of the guards. Therefore, like Stephen, we are to keep our heads lifted to the skies, seeking God for direction in every decision of life, and trusting Him to take us through the flood, the storm or the fire, whichever might be headed our way.
Revelation 17:17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!