The Assurance of God's Providence
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"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." —Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Singing was a significant part of my Sunday school experience as a little girl. Not only is singing something most children love to do, but it is also a great way to learn and remember Bible passages. Several decades later, I can still recall the words to many of those beloved songs. I can still picture sitting crisscross on the rug, cupping my hands together, and singing the old hymn, "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." Then we would lace our fingers and make them wiggle to simulate all the little people who are in God's hands.
As a child, I imagined the great big world as a tiny sphere compared to the grandness of Our Father's hands. I would picture myself standing still and steady in the middle of the spinning earth, knowing without a doubt that I was in the loving care of the One who is in control. I have clung to the assurance of God's sovereignty and omniscience throughout the years, especially during times of chaos and uncertainty.
I didn't know it then, but that hymn I sang as a child is a simplified yet perfect lesson on divine providence. With the world and all the people tucked perfectly into His hands, we know nothing is impossible for God, no one is deemed insignificant to Him, and He ordains every little detail.
God governs with wisdom, love, and care for His creation, working all things together for His ultimate good and divine plan. Through His providence, the Lord protects, guides, and provides for us.
King David's words in Psalm 24:1-2 reiterate God's supremacy and providence: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters."
Friend, when the world around us seems to be spinning out of control, we must hold tight to the truth that God has always been and is still in control. Take comfort and courage in knowing that you were created on purpose and made for a time such as this (Esther 4:14). Your life is not dictated by happenstance, for nothing escapes the divine providence of our Creator.
Questions for Reflection:
1. What is one burden you are trying to carry on your own that you need to lay down at Jesus' feet today?
2. When anxiety from circumstances beyond my control hits me, I recite Proverbs 3:5-6 repeatedly. It is my favorite verse and reestablishes that God needs me to lean in and surrender. What is your favorite verse that you can repeat when worry consumes you?
