The year’s at the spring,
And day’s at the morn;
Morning’s at seven;
The hill-side’s dew-pearled;
The lark’s on the wing;
The snail’s on the thorn;
God’s in His heaven—
All’s right with the world!

The above selection is from Pippa Passes by the poet Robert Browning. As a person of faith in God, I have always liked the last two lines. As a person living in the world … witnessing the ravages of disease, the horrors of war, the toll on those living in drought and famine stricken lands, the corruption of those in positions of authority and power, the incredible inhumanity and violence, and the destruction wrought by natural disasters, I know that all is not right in our world!

As a person of faith, who believes in the sovereignty of God, I do believe that God’s in His heaven – all’s right with the world. I am convinced that God is in control! If I did not have this conviction, then I am sure I would be constantly fretting and worrying … wringing my hands … and feeling that we are all doomed.

It is this conviction: “God’s in His heaven – all’s right with the world,” that gives me that sense of peace. This peace means not just freedom from conflict but the awareness that God wants only the best for us. In the troubled world in which we live and in a culture constantly telling us what will make us happy, I have received this wonderful fruit of the Spirit, peac,e which reassures me that God is in control and so truly all’s right with the world. Thanks be to God!

Prayer

Almighty God, when we wonder where our world is headed and what the future holds, grant that Your Holy Spirit would refresh us with the fruit of peace. Help us to hold steadfastly to our belief in your sovereignty, your compassion, your loving kindness, your grace, and your mercy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.