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“Providence”. To provide; to foresee, foresight, forethought Used in reference to the providence of man in Acts 24:2 When referring to the acts of God, it involves divine foresight, care, guardianship, supervision, and control through natural means toward a future goal
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“Providence” • To provide; to foresee, foresight, forethought • Used in reference to the providence of man in Acts 24:2 • When referring to the acts of God, it involves divine foresight, care, guardianship, supervision, and control through natural means toward a future goal • God will provide for our needs as he works his divine purpose in human history
Types of Divine Providence • General Providence • Care and supervision of God over the created universe (Col. 1:16-17; Matt. 6:26; Job 12:23) • Special Providence • Specific care of God on behalf of those who are his people (1 Pet. 5:7; Matt. 6:33)
Bible Examples of Divine Providence • Joseph • Eventually recognized God’s providential work in placing him as ruler in Egypt (Gen. 45:4-5) • Esther • Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, believed that God’s providence would prevail for good, and that Esther could help (Esther 4:13-14)
Important Principles • Man in the natural realm is subject to all natural laws and consequences • God is able to influence free moral beings without interfering with their free choice • God can, and will, act according to his will in answer to the prayer of the faithful • Providence deals ultimately with the spiritual goals of God’s eternal purpose
False Ideas • Everything that happens is totally predestined and controlled by God • If a tragedy happens, it is because God is delivering punishment • God is responsible for every bad choice or event in one’s life • Useless to pray for safety or health if tragedies do, and will, occur
The Christian’s Response to Divine Providence • Filled with adoration and reverence • Exhibit humility in daily business • Freedom from pressure, fear, and worry • Trust God in all things • Daily choices have very real consequences