God’s sovereignty transcends all human logic and reasoning. Something that appears so chaotic to us and is difficult to accept may well be a means of instruction and the restoration of human dignity. This realisation can only come about when we truly understand our existence in relation to Him. 

This is also God’s call to all nations in the presence of His Almighty power. Now Judah is to be handed over to Nebuchadnezzar (v. 6). It is quite astonishing that in this verse God declares that Nebuchadnezzar is His servant. This means that Nebuchadnezzar is often used by God to bring instruction and discipline to Judah. The King of Babylon will conquer various nations and bring them under his control. Meanwhile, Judah will be laid waste. All this time, God has been endeavouring to counsel Judah and urge them to repent, but they have preferred to listen to the false prophets who tell them to remain calm because everything is fine. 

The harsh reality that was to befall Judah would weigh heavily upon the nation’s leaders. God said to Zedekiah, “Place your neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon. Submit to him and to his people, and you will live.” (v.12) Even the Temple of God, which was the source of Judah’s security, was affected. The furnishings of the House of the Lord will be taken to Babylon. This does not mean that God has been defeated by the gods of Babylon, but rather that Judah’s defeat and Babylon’s victory are part of God’s greater plan for His people. 

Submitting to His decisions and His sovereignty is often not easy. Especially when what comes into our lives and unfolds before us is something so difficult and full of challenges. Yet be assured that God is in control and knows all things. Our task is simply to demonstrate obedience to Him. The Lord Himself will help and strengthen us.