The Providence Of God

The Bible is a revelation of Almighty God and his concern and relationship with mankind as he works for man’s good upon this earth and his glory throughout eternity. Jehovah is revealed in the Bible as the creator of the universe and mankind. “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth” (Psalms 33:6). This universe in which man lives shows design, purpose, and orderliness which proves that it came from the hand of an intelligent creator who possesses a purpose for this world and mankind.

What Is Providence?

The Biblical concept of “providence” carries the idea of God’s forethought and foresight in creating a material world where he has the ability to exercise his control and will, while at the same time providing mankind the freedom of choice to exercise his will. God is able control by His laws and rule in that universe and still achieve his purpose. God rules in three areas: (1) the physical creation (inanimate-material); (2) the animal creation; and (3) the moral creation (mankind).

God does not make man do anything against his own will. Man formulates his own personality and exercises his own will. However, God does have the ability to use men, whether good or wicked, to accomplish whatever He desires.

The necessary components of God’s providence are:

1. God is the divine creator of our universe and he has the power to control his creation.

2. God continues to oversee and sustain his universe today. He now “upholds all things by the word of his power” (Hebrew 1:3).

3. God has provided mankind laws to govern and guide his life upon this earth both in the physical and moral worlds.

4. The laws by which man’s world operates is an expression of God’s will for man.

5. Mankind is subject to all laws of nature and will suffer consequences upon violation of natural law. Blessing is the result of obedience; accidents, suffering, and death are the consequence of disobedience.

6. The laws of God are designed for the moral and spiritual training of mankind.

7. God has the power and ability to allow mankind the freedom of choice in his daily life, but also to use man’s choices to accomplish his purpose.

8. God can directly alter the course of human events, if he wills, in answer to the prayers of his children .

God is the creator, lawgiver and governor of the universe in which mankind lives. God does not make mistakes; but always performs what is righteous and His purpose is always for man’s benefit. God will always operate in harmony with His will and His character. God does not force mankind to obey His will. Mankind has the God-given freedom of choice to do with his life as he desires.