The doctrine of God's all-disposing providence is most comforting to the mind of man. If everything were left to chance or were at the disposal of mortal men, we would have nothing to cheer us in adversity, or to moderate our pride in prosperity.
What a comfort is the thought that all things are directed by our all-wise God, who "does according to His will with all the angels of Heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth!"
Whatever the designs of men may be, the fact that "His counsel shall surely stand" preserves our minds composed and peaceful in every situation, and in every condition.
We must not think that God interposes only in great concerns, such as the fate of empires. He equally interests Himself in all the events that are daily and hourly occurring, even in the most trivial matters.
Whatever trials we have, or whatever blessings we enjoy God must be regarded as the true and only source of all!
We must learn how to judge of everything, whether prosperous or adverse, in our own affairs. We must always look to the eternal outcome!
What will prosperity benefit us, if it draws us away from God, and leads us, like the rich fool, to fix our happiness on things below?
On the other hand, what reason can we have to complain of afflictions, if they are sanctified to our spiritual and eternal good?
Our severest afflictions are intended to humble us, and to bring us to the footstool of our God.
We should receive all of our personal afflictions as from Him; and, having done so, we should "hear the rod, and Him who appointed it."
Were we but attentive to God's voice in afflictive dispensations, we would say to the instruments of our trials, as Joseph did to his brethren, "It was not you who sent me here, but God!"
Instead of quarreling with second causes, we should kiss the divine hand that smote us!
Do not then be so much concerned to get rid of present trials, as to have them made subservient to the good of your souls.
Only trust in Him who orders all of our affairs with unerring wisdom and unbounded love!
[Charles Simeon]
Matthew 10:29-30 ...Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Romans 8:28 ... And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ❤
