When God Overrules

Introduction

Set the scene by describing how people often put too much trust in human authority, personal wisdom, religious rituals, or dishonest gain — yet Proverbs 21 reminds us that God overrules all these things. The message could follow this theme:

“Four ways God’s rule exceeds man’s reasoning.”

God’s Power Overrules Human Politics

Proverbs 21:1 “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it whithersoever he will.”

“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord…”

God directs rulers like rivers — His sovereignty bends the hearts of kings.

Human government operates under divine governance.

We can trust God’s control when earthly leaders seem out of control.

God’s Perception Overrules Human Pride

Proverbs 21:2 “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: But the Lord pondereth the hearts.”

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes…”

Man justifies himself, but God judges the heart.

What we think is right isn’t always righteous.

God’s evaluation, not our estimation, is what matters.

God’s Principles Overrule Human Performance

Proverbs 21:3 “To do justice and judgment Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”

“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”

Obedience outweighs outward offerings.

God desires righteousness, not religious rituals.

Living right is better than looking right.

God’s Plan Overrules Human Prosperity

Proverbs 21:5–7 “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; But of every one that is hasty only to want. The getting of treasures by a lying tongue Is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death. The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; Because they refuse to do judgment.”

“The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness…”

Diligence leads to blessing, but dishonesty leads to destruction.

God rewards integrity and hard work, not shortcuts and schemes.

What’s gained by deceit will eventually be lost by judgment.

Conclusion

God overrules — in politics, in pride, in pretense, and in prosperity.

“When man thinks he’s in control, God is still turning the river.” Encourage believers to trust God’s rule, walk in integrity, and rest in His sovereignty.