Many people think that their lives unfold according to chance.

But that contradicts the biblical teaching about providence. 

The word “providence” sounds like “provide.” A provider in a household anticipates what is needed and then ensures those needs are met.

In a similar way, our Provider sees the needs of his people. Since he is both good and almighty, he preserves and sustains his people for their own good and for his glory.

The Heidelberg Catechism gives us this memorable phrase: “all things, in fact, come to us not by chance but from his fatherly hand.”

The biblical teaching about providence is an encouragement to us, especially when we feel like we’re all alone in life, or that nothing good can come out of a particularly challenging situation. We see the brushstrokes; God sees the big picture. 

Imagine watching an artist work on a painting. You can only guess at what the final product will look like. Only the artist knows that for sure. That’s kind of like providence. Our vision is limited, but God’s is not; he is at work even when we can’t always make sense of what we’re seeing.

Romans 8:28 says it well: “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.”

In ALL things, not just SOME things.

Ours is a life of providence, upheld and guided by God’s invisible hand.

We see the brushstrokes; God sees the big picture.

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Notes:

–Sermon: “Is it all chance or providence?” February 12, 2023. Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.