Changing King's Hearts

Recently, I was promoted on my job to a rather choice position. The reason I am joyful is because it was not a position into which I manipulated myself. I had applied for several other positions for which I was well qualified only to see those jobs given to others. On each occassion, I was told that I had done a great job in the interview, but someone else got the position. To say the least, I was disappointed each time. I even wanted to feel cheated and complain. But I remembered that God is sovereign over all things even my selection for a position at work. If I had gotten any of the other jobs, it would have meant a promotion, but any raise I would have gotten would have been nullified by the expenses associated with driving my own car to work. With the position He has given, I received a significant raise and a company vehicle to drive.

Proverbs 21:1 says, "The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." This not only applies to those who are heads of state, but it applies to anyone who is in charge. As far as heads of state are concerned, there is great comfort for those who trust in God because we know that no matter who gets elected as President, Senator, Governor, etc., God will turn the ruler's heart in the direction that coincides with His plans. A quick reading of the Old Testament books of Nehemiah and Esther will demonstate this truth.

The same is true of those who are in charge at any level. God is not only interested in the affairs of state, He is also interested in my affairs. He does not necessarily give me what I want unless my wants are in line with His plans. But when the two line up, i.e., His will and my desires, He has promised to answer affirmatively. "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him." 1John 5:14, 15

So, when you are striving for something and someone in charge seems to be standing in your way, do not become angry, bitter, frustrated, etc. Remember, if you want what God wants, He is able to turn that heart as He pleases. What God has for you, He has for you.