Living in a world where we are not exempt from difficulties and problems can make us forget that God is sovereign. When we face challenges that seem beyond our control, we may begin to question whether God is truly involved in our lives. Such doubts can lead to discouragement and even despair.
Without realizing it, we may begin to believe that although God reigns in heaven, He is somehow distant from the affairs of this earth. We may acknowledge His mighty power in heaven while questioning His authority and involvement here on earth. Yet God is sovereign over both heaven and earth. I believe He sometimes allows experiences in our lives that remind us of this truth. I want to share one such experience that helped me recognize His sovereignty in a way I will never forget.
In 2024, I received an invitation to attend a conference called GYC (Generation. Youth. Christ). I couldn't attend because I already had other commitments, and I didn't have the necessary financial resources at the time. However, in 2025, just a month and a half before the event, I received another invitation. This time, I said yes—I would go! I believed it was the right time for me and that I needed guidance and answers from God.
At first, it seemed impossible because I needed to obtain a visa. In my home country, the Dominican Republic, the earliest available visa appointments were not until October 2026. Since GYC was scheduled for December 2025, we explored applying through Barbados. Through God's providence, I secured an appointment there for December 3, 2025.
With God’s help, I traveled to Barbados. On the day of my appointment, I waited with my friend and began to feel nervous. But God comforted my heart when I saw a small bird carrying a twig in its beak. It reminded me of Noah and God's faithfulness. When I entered the building, I felt worried again, but the image of that little bird came to mind and brought me peace.
While waiting in line, I noticed several people being told that they needed to bring another photograph because theirs did not meet the requirements. I began to worry because my photograph looked different from those that had been accepted. Once again, I remembered the little bird, and I felt calm.
Finally, it was my turn for the interview. The officer asked me many questions, and God helped me answer them. I remember one question in particular: Which countries had I traveled to? I listed the countries I had visited, and then the officer asked, “Who pays for all these trips?” She asked because my application identified me as a colporteur and missionary, with a monthly income of only $200 to $300. God helped me explain my circumstances and provide evidence to support my answer.
I noticed that everyone who was granted a visa received a blue slip of paper, while those who were not received a yellow slip. So when the officer finished my interview and picked up a yellow slip, my first thought was, “Oh no, I didn't get my visa!” But that wasn't the case. She gave me the yellow slip because it contained instructions for sending my passport through DHL, since I was not a resident of Barbados.
I returned home and received an email with information and a link to check my visa status. As soon as I clicked the link, I saw one word: “Refused.”
My heart sank. How could this be? I had already sent my passport to Barbados, and it had been there for two days. Why would they ask me to send my passport only to refuse my visa?
I was confused, but then I made a decision. I decided to find refuge in the Word of God. I was reading the book of Daniel that month, so for the next four days, I sought refuge in God's Word and focused on who He is. The book of Daniel was perfect for this because it revealed God's sovereignty both in heaven and on earth.
One verse stayed with me throughout this experience: Daniel 4:35. It reminded me that God rules over heaven and earth, that no one can restrain His hand, and that no one can question His authority.
“All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand or say to Him, ‘What have You done?’” (Daniel 4:35, NKJV).
That verse became my reminder of hope. During those days, my prayer was, "Lord, I accept Your will. I acknowledge Your sovereignty in heaven and on earth. No one can tell You what to do."
Four days later, after praying that same prayer, I checked the website again. This time, I saw something incredible: “Issued.” I was so happy, and I thanked God!
But the story didn't end there. My passport was supposed to arrive by December 21, but it didn't arrive until December 30—just one day before my departure! And I had already purchased my plane ticket without having my passport in hand, choosing to trust in God's sovereignty.
I was greatly blessed at GYC. I received the answers I had been seeking from God, made important decisions, and, by His grace, connected with Time to Get Ready Ministries and joined the team as a writer. God knew I needed to be there, and He made it possible.
Call to Action
So, what did I learn about God? I learned that despite the difficulties in this world that threaten to cloud my understanding of who God is and His sovereign power, I can choose to trust in His sovereignty right here on earth. God is sovereign whether His answer is yes, no, or wait. My responsibility is to trust Him regardless of the outcome.
This has impacted my life in such a way that whenever I face a problem, I remember who God is, and His peace fills my heart. I invite you to experience it as well. Believe in and trust the God whose authority extends not only throughout heaven but also across the earth. God is faithful. He longs to save us, help us, and have us trust Him completely, no matter what.
I’ve decided to trust God and acknowledge His sovereignty in every circumstance. Will you make that same decision today?
