The concept of God's providence is a central theme in Christian theology, reflecting the belief that God is actively involved in the world and in the lives of His people. The providence of God refers to His divine guidance, care, and governance over all creation. For the saints, or believers, trusting in God's providence is both a duty and a source of comfort.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous passages that affirm the providence of God and encourage believers to trust in it. One of the most cited verses is Romans 8:28, which states, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose" . This verse reassures believers that God's sovereign plan is ultimately for their benefit, even when circumstances seem adverse.

In the Old Testament, the account of Joseph is a profound illustration of God's providence. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph later rises to a position of power in Egypt. He acknowledges God's hand in his life, saying to his brothers, "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people" (Genesis 50:20).

Trust in God's Provision

The saints are called to trust in God's provision, as He is depicted as a caring Father who knows and meets the needs of His children. Jesus teaches this principle in the Sermon on the Mount, urging believers not to worry about their material needs: "Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them" (Matthew 6:31-32).

God's Sovereign Control

The providence of God also encompasses His sovereign control over the universe. Proverbs 16:9 declares, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps" . This verse highlights the belief that while humans may make plans, it is ultimately God who directs their paths. Trusting in God's sovereignty means acknowledging His ultimate authority and wisdom in all matters.

Encouragement in Trials

Trusting in God's providence is especially crucial during times of trial and suffering. The apostle Paul, writing from prison, expresses his confidence in God's providential care: "I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:12-13). Paul's words encourage believers to rely on Christ's strength and God's provision, regardless of their circumstances.

Examples of Trust

Throughout Scripture, there are numerous examples of saints who trusted in God's providence. Abraham, when called to leave his homeland, obeyed God without knowing his destination (Hebrews 11:8). David, pursued by King Saul, consistently sought God's guidance and protection, as reflected in the Psalms. In Psalm 23:1, David declares, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" , expressing his trust in God's provision and care.

Conclusion

The providence of God is a profound and comforting doctrine for believers. It assures them that God is in control, working all things for their good, and providing for their needs. Saints are encouraged to trust in God's providence, drawing strength and peace from His sovereign care and guidance.Matthew 6:33,34
But seek you first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 10:9,29-31
Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Providence of God
... but grievous; but the Lord turns it to the good of his saints. ... nothing comes to pass
but what is ordained by God's decree, and ordered by his providence. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/14 the providence of god.htm

Letter xxv. --God Only Desires what we are Able to Give.
... has been the same with many of the saints who had ... You must abandon yourself entirely
to God, and put your ... it is by the arrangements of His providence that you ...
/.../abandonment to divine providence/letter xxv god only desires what.htm

The Unchangeableness of God
... variableness, nor shadow of turning.' The best saints have their ... cannot be reversed,
to what purpose should we use ... (1.) Concerning God's providence towards his ...
/.../watson/a body of divinity/4 the unchangeableness of god.htm

Letter xix. Submission to the Will of God; Dependence Upon Him for ...
... of men and the secret agency of divine Providence are brought ... says,""But seek ye
first the kingdom of God, and his ... "O fear the Lord, ye his saints; for there ...
/.../letter xix submission to the.htm

God's Providence
... is the greatest wisdom in the workings of Providence. ... Blessing His Saints;" No.1,078,
"The Saints Blessing the ... Pity of the Lord;" No.1,650, "God's Fatherly Pity ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 54 1908/gods providence.htm

God.
... For God, as the name of Ephraim signifies, makes us ... the head of Ephraim, or in that
providence that sanctifies ... in him "to comprehend with other saints what is ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bunyan/the riches of bunyan/i god.htm

The Third Season
... What though God do not in his outward dispensations ... treasures, and the teeth of the
saints with gravel ... love has distinguished, though common providence has not ...
//christianbookshelf.org/flavel/on keeping the heart/iii the third season.htm

Surely Goodness and Mercy Shall Follow Me all the Days of My Life ...
... But here we must not conclude that the Saints and holy ... no further doubt that it is
the will of God that we ... know how long it is the wish of Providence that we ...
/.../callan/the shepherd of my soul/xi surely goodness and mercy.htm

Footnotes:
... equally clear, equally commands, or rather privileges, of the saints of God. ... temporal
Provision, his widowed Mother to the promises and providence of God? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/groves/christian devotedness/footnotes .htm

Go Back? Never!
... dealing with him somewhat severely in providence, yet there ... gives should have its
test, and should glorify his ... All God's saints will confess that if the Lord ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 61 1915/go back never.htm

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