Divine Providence
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
God is in total control, ruling as Sovereign over the entire universe.
That statement is easy to make but sometimes hard to believe. When we look at everything happening around us, it can seem like everything is random, chaotic and out of control. But God is weaving a beautiful tapestry that we cannot fully fathom.
Even before you were born, He knew you (Psalm 139:13-16) and had been working things out. That even includes who your parents are. In the Scriptures, we see God select Mary and Joseph as the earthly parents of Jesus. God is no less present in working all things together on your behalf.
Perhaps you’ve heard people attribute good fortune to simple luck or chance. What if we instead acknowledged the sovereignty and divine providence of God? Romans 8:28 is more than just a verse to be quoted to someone in grief or tragedy. It should encourage us daily!
This verse doesn’t mean everything will always be sunshine and rainbows. There will undoubtedly be hard times. Jesus Himself promised us this. He then encouraged us by telling us He’s overcome the world (see John 16:33). We must maintain an eternal perspective and trust that God is working all things together for our ultimate good.
So, remember: God is in total control, ruling as Sovereign over the entire universe. Be encouraged!
Application: What difficult situation are you struggling with right now? Take time to share every bit of that with God. Share your fear or frustration with Him—He can handle it. Then ask Him to help you trust Him.
Prayer:
Almighty God,
Help me to truly believe that You are Sovereign. Grant me the ability to see Your fingerprints all over my life, working things together for my good and Your glory. Thank You for how You’ve blessed my life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?