"And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and
has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings..." (Acts 17:26)
God rules in the kingdoms of men. Napoleon, at the height of his career, is reported to have given
this cynical answer to someone who asked if God was on the side of France: "God is on the side
that has the heaviest artillery." Then came the Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon lost both the
battle and his empire. Years later, in exile on the island of St. Helena, chastened and humbled,
Napoleon is reported to have quoted the words of Thomas à Kempis: "Man proposes, God
disposes." Indeed, God is able to work His sovereign will, despite what man may purpose.
"...The Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses." (Dan. 4:32)