The Doctrine of Providence - Part Five

Governance. The Bible teaches that the same God who preserves the world and is involved with every action of his creatures is also governing the world according to his wisdom. Sometimes the world can seem like a chaotic place. From the weather to political events to terrorist activities we do not know what a day will bring. To the casual observer it may appear that there is no God who is ruling over all. But appearances can be deceiving and things are not always as they appear. Take for instance, the flood that took place in the time of Noah (Genesis 6-9). Those caught in the flood thought that the world was going to come to an end, but they were wrong. During the Babylonian captivity as described in Daniel 1 it appeared as though Nebuchadnezzar had triumphed over the God of Israel. But in reality God was using the Babylonians to judge his people and further the establishment of his kingdom in the world. Governance is consistent with the frequent biblical assertion that God is king and that he reigns over all. Nothing happens that he does not know about because he ordains all things. The Bible speaks of God as “working out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11).

God’s rule has particular relevance to his people. It reminds us that God is in control and that he is moving human history forward to the end that he has ordained. It means that we can trust him with our lives and know that nothing happens by accident. If, as Paul says in Romans 11:36 that, “From him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever” – then the promise of Romans 8:28 stands firm that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” In these days this is precious indeed.

So whether we think in terms of God’s preservation of all things, his concurrence in all that transpires, or his governance of the world, the providence of God gives the Christian comfort, strength and confidence as he or she lives their life and works hard for the glory of God.