The greatness and sovereignty of the LORD are central themes throughout the Bible, underscoring His supreme authority, power, and majesty over all creation. These attributes affirm that God is the ultimate ruler and sustainer of the universe, deserving of worship, reverence, and obedience.

Divine Sovereignty

The sovereignty of the LORD is the doctrine that God is the supreme authority and all things are under His control. This is evident from the very first verse of the Bible: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). This foundational statement establishes God as the Creator, who has absolute authority over all that exists.

The Psalms frequently celebrate God's sovereign rule. Psalm 103:19 declares, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all" . This verse emphasizes that God's dominion is not limited to earthly realms but extends to the entire cosmos. Similarly, Psalm 115:3 states, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases" , highlighting His freedom and authority to act according to His will.

God's Greatness

The greatness of the LORD is often expressed in terms of His incomparable power, wisdom, and majesty. Isaiah 40:28 proclaims, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary; His understanding is beyond searching out" . This passage underscores God's eternal nature and infinite understanding, setting Him apart from all creation.

In the book of Job, God's greatness is revealed through His creation and governance of the natural world. Job 38-41 contains a series of questions posed by God to Job, illustrating His unmatched power and wisdom. For instance, Job 38:4-5 states, "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who fixed its measurements? Surely you know!" . These rhetorical questions serve to remind humanity of God's unparalleled greatness.

God's Sovereign Will

The LORD's sovereignty is also evident in His providential care and governance of human history. Proverbs 19:21 affirms, "Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail" . This verse highlights that, despite human intentions, it is ultimately God's will that is accomplished.

The New Testament continues to affirm God's sovereign rule. Ephesians 1:11 states, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will" . This passage emphasizes that God's sovereign plan encompasses all events, working them according to His divine purpose.

Worship and Reverence

The recognition of the LORD's greatness and sovereignty naturally leads to worship and reverence. In Revelation 4:11, the heavenly hosts proclaim, "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and came to be" . This doxology acknowledges God's worthiness to receive all glory and honor due to His role as Creator and Sustainer.

The call to worship the LORD in light of His greatness is echoed in Psalm 95:3-6: "For the LORD is a great God, a great King above all gods. In His hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to Him. The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker" . This passage invites believers to respond to God's greatness with humility and adoration.

Conclusion

The LORD's greatness and sovereignty are foundational truths that permeate the biblical narrative, affirming His ultimate authority and power over all creation. These attributes call for a response of worship, trust, and submission to His divine will.