God’s Providence Sermon by John Kimber September 15, 2002

What do we mean when we talk about God’s providence? “God’s control and supervision of all the events of our world to bring the highest good to His saved people.” – Rubel Shelly Allows us to understand that when God works, He works to bring about the good of the majority and His will. It also allows us to understand that God does not cause all things, but He can use all things to accomplish His holy purpose.

A Biblical Understanding of Providence. ► Deuteronomy 8:18- God gives us the ability to produce wealth to sustain our needs. ► Psalms 3:5- He sustains us during our troubles. ► Luke 12: God will take care of our basic needs. ► Romans 8:28- God works for the good of those who have been saved.

James 4:13-17 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

Principle #1 God should be glorified through your plans.

Principle #2 God has given us a finite time to do an eternal mission.

Principle #3 God should receive the praise for the blessings we receive and give.

Principle #4 God expects you to do the good He has prepared for you.