Sovereignty in Revolution

Found this New York Times Interactive editorial outstanding, walking through the series of events in Tunisia and Egypt.   

We are living in a fascinating time in world history.  Let it be noted that this revolution is not the work of Islamists or fundamentalists, and certainly not terrorists.  It is an uprising of normal everyday people that have had enough of oppression, even by what the US deemed Western-allied, Israeli tolerant regimes.  I find it somewhat disturbing that the US propped up such governments for years.  Just demonstrates how fickle and short sighted we really are. We see world events in the 4 year segments of US politics much of the time.  

Then there's Iran, who spoke out in support of Egyptian protesters, all the while suppressing it's own anti-government pro-democracy group and minority, but growing, Christian population with brutality and imprisonment.  It's like they're saying... revolution is fine on the Med... but not the Persian Gulf.  There are times and seasons I suppose...makes me wonder what God is up to.

A lesson to be learned...This revolution is not to be feared perhaps like Iran's or Afghanistan's were... this is a movement of people wanting true freedom and a voice. However, even the revolutions of past decades, really are not causes for panic in the big picture.  We need to be careful to watch these events with a healthy awe, for God is at work meting out his sovereign will as it pertains to rulers and authorities.  Certainly, I am praying for more freedom for Egyptian and Tunisian Christians, for the gospel to spread.  But, whatever the outcome, it is God who sets up rulers and brings them down... Even in Iran, an Islamic strict government, Christianity is growing... God has purposes and seasons and is sovereign to create the circumstances in every place and state on earth that are right for drawing men to himself, and accomplishing his purposes.  I'm trying to keep that mind as it seems many times the world is spinning out of control... God has a plan in the chaos.