[Sons to Glory!]

ZNP- thanks for relating that story! That's right where the rubber meets the road (had to say that)!

This makes me think of something I got some helpful light on not long ago. In Genesis God gave authority over the earth to us, in other words, He delegated it to us. That delegated authority was then usurped by the enemy. That's what prompted Jesus to say, "The ruler of this world is coming and he has nothing in me." Jesus, as a man, has taken the delegated authority back from the enemy ("All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me."). Of course, the enemy is resisting this and creation is waiting for man to fully grasp the victory already won and completely execute it here.

My business is leadership development, and we teach that when you delegate something you:
1) Fully train & empower the one being delegated to
2) Let them get the results for themselves (includes making mistakes)
3) Only step in to help if invited or complete failure is eminent

God, has actually limited Himself willingly by His choice of delegated authority. I think this helps explain a lot. The enemy still thinks he is in control - doing his best to steal, kill & destroy. Regenerated man, with Christ in them, has the authority - but usually doesn't know it. Apparently bad things happen, which God doesn't step in to do much about (again, apparently). But He has delegated the authority to us, and it's up to us to invite Him into whatever the situation is here on earth ("Thy will be done on earth . . .").

What's truly amazing is He will get His family together - in love - even though we all have free will to choose Him or not! Think about that . . . this will be the most remarkable outcome the universe has ever seen. No wonder His praises will be so great and will never cease!

So the saying "God is sovereign" is basically true I think. Although, as someone pointed out, it's not to be found much in scripture (minor detail, right?). However, what scripture does say clearly is, "God is love." Why will He get His purpose ultimately (and sovereignly)? He loves us is the answer! And He gave us free will, and then delegated the whole thing to us (after winning the victory Himself)!

What a risk He's taking with us . . . and why this great risk we ask? He loves us!

Hopefully that is meaningful and helps put things in proper perspective.