Thursday, 24th August 2023

Andrews Ampomah

TOPIC: GOD'S PROVIDENCE

THEME SCRIPTURE: “…and both Mahlon and Chilion died so that the woman was left without her two sons and her husband” – Ruth 1:5

 

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

1. What is divine providence?

In lamenting the tragedy that befell him, Job cursed his birthday. He asked, "Why did I not die at birth, come out from the womb, and expire?" because his suffering was so great.  Job, a seemingly successful man, abruptly lost everything and buried himself in dust and ashes. He was always afraid and uneasy because trouble was always around him (Job 3:26).

Often, life’s challenges, and difficult times lead to questions like, "Why is this happening to me?" Where is God in all of this? Or, when will this suffering come to an end?

In our focus text, Naomi lost her husband and two children tragically (Ruth 1:5). Naomi left the covenant land of promise with her husband and children for Moab. Unexpected events led to tragedy in this foreign land. The weight of Naomi's grief was obvious. The intensity of her sorrows astonished Bethlehem upon her return: "And when they arrived in Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them. And the women said, “Is this Naomi? (Ruth 1:19).” Note that it is likely that Naomi's family was not the only one that sought better opportunities in Moab. Given this likelihood, why did Naomi's family suffer misfortune?

In explaining divine providence, beloved, it is important to remember that God's role goes beyond upholding creation and governing the universe. 

His purpose and glory are served by both good and unpleasant situations. So, a trouble-free life is never guaranteed.  Life is full of huddles—one moment you’re on a mountaintop, the next in a valley. You might be in a challenging phase of your life right now. It’s likely you're unemployed and struggling to support your family. Or, a series of misfortunes may be unfolding in your life. Despite hard work, nothing may be going right, leaving you frustrated and uncertain. “Where is God, and does He care”, you may have asked.

Dearly beloved, in Christ Jesus, the doctrine of God’s providence should comfort us, both in good and unpleasant times.

Take comfort in God’s word: “And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Rom 8:28).  God has seen your afflictions; He has heard your cry; and He will certainly work it out for your good. He knows His own. God bless you.

 

FURTHER READING – Ruth 1

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so 

 

QUESTION TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. What do you do when you go through trials of various kinds?

 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, help me by Your Holy Spirit to be steadfast and to hold on to You in times of tragedy and to always be conscious that whatever situation I find myself in, You are working it out for Your glory and for my good in Christ Jesus. Amen.

 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan

1 Kings 19; Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; 1 Corinthians 4; 1 Corinthians 5