Providence
George Stiekes
The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD. Proverbs 16:33
We laugh when any one shares incidents related to Murphy’s Law. Examples:
- The Law of Variation – If you change traffic lanes, the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now (or the line in the grocery store).
- Law of the Bath – When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone will ring.
- Law of Biomechanics – The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.
So why do things happen as they do? The providence of God must always be recognized as part of the answer. We should also recognize that God is sovereign and that He is in absolute control of all things (I Chronicles 29:11-12; Ecclesiastes 3:14).
Providence: The efficacious administration by which God manages all that comes to pass in the world. Our all wise and eternal God directs all things to their appointed end, foreseeing and caring for all His creatures.
There are many people overly concerned about global warming. Their problem: They do not in any way recognized the providence of God. He is in charge of what takes place in our world. By the breath of God frost is given: and the breadth of the waters is straitened (Job 37:10). He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth (Psalm 104:14). Others are concerned about the government in our nation. For the kingdom is the LORD’S: and He is the governor among the nations (Psalm 22:28). There is nothing that escapes His sight and He has a purpose for everything that takes place on this earth. Even the very hairs on our heads are numbered (Matthew 10:30).
Murphy’s Law exists because we do not understand everything and God has chosen not to reveal everything that takes place on the earth. In the midst of great problems, the psalmist said, I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for Thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety (Psalm 4:8). And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
ISIS has threatened to kill Americans in our country. Earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and fires may come and do much destruction. Floods and drought may destroy our food supply and natural fuels may all dry up. Does it really matter? Instead of marching on Washington, hoarding food or building bomb shelters, Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass (Psalm 37:7). Remember that it is the Lord Who holds the pillars of the earth firm (Psalm 75:3). Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
What a comfort it is to recognize that nothing happens by accident and that there is something for us in every circumstance of life. God never makes a mistake and He cares for us.
George Stiekes held successful pastorates in churches in Michigan and Washington among other places. He currently resides in North Carolina and blogs at Reverent Reflections. We recommend his ministry and republish his material by permission.