In Praise of Providence

Over the past few years, God has continually impressed upon me one important principle: God is big. The realization (or illumination) of this fact has greatly changed my view of Him, myself, and this world we live in. He is, after all, the great and sovereign I AM. I am continually amazed at His surpassing awesomeness. The more I learn of His power and sovereignty, the more I am capable and compelled to worship Him in spirit and truth.

One of the questions which I have often pondered is God’s role in the seemingly casual, mundane aspects of my everyday life. In other words, does God micromanage the universe? This is a fundamental question about the character of God. It’s not a question of His capabilities, but of the extent to which He intercedes.

Is He similar to the Greek god Zeus, sitting afar on His throne throwing down miracles like lighting bolts?

Or maybe He is the proverbial watchmaker, looking on His creation with unconcerned and disinterested?

Or is He the God who is infinitely involved in every aspect of His creation; lovingly guiding, directing and working all things according to His own desire and plan.

More and more I believe the latter.

The Bible is a testament to God’s total providence. Phil Johnson states it this way, “Providence is God’s faithful, moment-by-moment control over everything He has made to ensure that everything He has created achieves the end He has chosen.”

God works all things according to His will (Ephesians 1:11) and for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). God controls the details of the universe, from ever falling sparrow (Matthew 10:29), to every roll of the dice (Proverbs 16:33). He has carefully number the hairs on your head (Matthew 10:30). He guides the steps of men (Proverbs 16:9) and works all things together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28). God provides for our every need (Matthew 6:25-26) and graciously gives us good gifts (James 1:17). He draws us to Himself (John 6:44) and He tests and sanctifies us with trials (1 Peter 4:19). He redirects evil intentions, transforming them into good (Genesis 50:20). He holds all things together (Hebrews 1:3).

Indeed God is a God of providence. He is intimately involved in our lives, guiding, directing, managing, and interceding. Experience and history are yet another testament to His providence. Though invisible at the time, hind-sight reveals God’s handy work. I can see God’s control in the decisions, circumstances and “coincidences” in my past.

Realizing this awesome truth should increase our hope and trust in Him. Therefore, with joy, hope and confidence we can pray, “Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven!”
God is big. Amen.

For His glory,
DJ