What About Those Who Do Not Believe?

The apostle Paul cared so passionately about his own people that he was willing to be cut off from God and the people whom he loved if they would be saved.

He writes, ‘I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ [a definition of hell] for the sake of my people, those of my own race, the people of Israel’ (v.3–4a).

Yet at the same time, Paul trusted that God had the whole situation under control. God is sovereign. He rules and reigns in his universe.

How do we balance this anguish and passion for those we love, with a trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty?

Thank God for his rule and reign - Psalm 89:9-13

We do not know the answers to all the questions. But we do know that God is in control of his universe. This is God’s world. He loves you and you can trust him not only with your future but also with what will happen to everyone else.

‘The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it’ (v.11).

Not only did he create the world, but he also continues to act in history. ‘You rule over the surging sea… Your arm is endued with power; your hand is strong, your right hand exalted’ (v.9a,13).

‘And we know that in all things God works for the good for those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose’ (Romans 8:28).