2 Kings 23:31-24:17

The end of Judah came not with an explosive battle, but with a series of failures.  There were attacks on all sides, and nothing that anyone could do.  The great city that was Jerusalem became a collection of poor people ruled by the uncle of the king.  All that was great about Jerusalem was carried away to another land.  Where was God.  We ask questions like that in times like that.  The author of 2 Kings lets us know that God is not only present – but these things were happening at his word.  Could it be that sometimes bad things happen because our God is a judge as well as a Savior?  No matter how good we might think we are, there is always evil among us, and enough within us, to justify calamity.  The LORD gave, the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.

LORD, no matter what happens, you are our God. We submit to your rule, whatever happens to us.