What do these four kings have in common: David, Charlemagne, Caesar, and Alexander? These are the kings of hearts, spades, diamonds, and clubs in a deck of cards. But where is the King of kings? Where in a deck of cards is the supreme Commander of the universe?

Any ruler in our world may have authority over a certain domain, but ultimately Jesus Christ has authority over all domains and rulers—even corrupt rulers who abuse their authority and power. 

Pharaoh chased down Moses and the Israelites, but the Lord used Pharaoh for his own purposes, saying, “I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen” (Exodus 14:17). 

Martin Luther once remarked, “God looks upon kings as children look upon playing cards.”

The slavery in and exodus from Egypt served God’s plan of salvation for sinners. The destruction of Jerusalem and foreign captivity served God’s plan of salvation for sinners. The pharaohs and Nebuchadnezzars of today continue to serve God’s plan of salvation for sinners. 

God has every government and government leader in his hand to help him accomplish his saving plan. 

Read Psalm 118:9 and meditate on it in prayer. Be honest and confess where you have trusted in this world’s governments to give you what only God can give you. Turn to him in repentance, and trust God more than government.