What God Deems Best

by Heather Tietz

Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me. I declare the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done. I say: My counsel will stand, and I will do all that I please.

Isaiah 46:9-10

At the start of the nation of Israel there was no king but God alone. For 400 years prophets and judges counseled the people. Then in 880 BC they begged their prophet Samuel to appoint them a king. God gave them Saul, then David, and the royal line marched on. But their rulers were rarely right. Leaders are humans. Humans are sinners. Only with God is law perfect, decisions just, timing right and outcomes, though not always initially desirable, what God deems best.

The beautiful words of the hymn “Day by Day” paint a comforting picture of God’s kingship over the universe. It reads, “Trusting in My Father’s wide bestowment, I’ve no cause for worry or for fear. He whose heart is kind beyond all measure, Gives unto each day what He deems best. Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure, Mingling toil with peace and rest.”

Lina Sandell Berg, did not write these words without heart. At twenty-six she watched her beloved father drown after falling off a lurching ship. Her tragic experience could have turned her away from God. Instead, like the psalmist David, she worked through her pain with Him. She continued to write hymns, many of which reflect her healing heart. She kept God King over her life.

Regardless of circumstance, of what pain or joy comes to us, we too can resolve that God’s law is prefect, His decisions are just, His timing is right. He only allows for us what “He deems best”.