An App for that – Providence

Introduction

1.    Life often has some problems, pumps in the road, crisis

2.    When we need some help – There is an app for that

3.    Providence is God’s “app” to help with these situations

 Examples of Providence

1.    Abraham – Genesis 22:13 – Ram in the bushes (vs. 14) Called place The Lord will provide”

2.    Joseph – Genesis 45:8 – God sent me ahead to preserve life

3.    Esther – Esther 4:14 – Sent to the kingdom for such a time as this?

4.    Ethiopian – Acts 8:26 – Join thyself to this chariot

2. Define Providence – The foresight of God, to plan and prepare for in advance.

1.    Matthew 5:45 – God sends rain on just and unjust

2.    James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift is from above

3.    When we face a problem – God is already working on the solution

Agents of God's Providence

1. Physical elements

1.    Psalm 148:8

2.    Amos 4:7

2. What appears to be an “accident”

1.    Exodus 21:12-12

3. Men

1.    Cyrus – Isaiah 44:28

2.    David – Psalm 17:13

3.    Pharaoh – Romans 9:17

4. Angels – Hebrews 1:14
5. Holy Spirit

1.    John 15:26

2.    Ephesians 3:16

3.    Romans 8:14

4.    Romans 8:26-28

Providence Today

1. We must conclude that God's providence is of such a nature that we cannot prove that each event is God's special working.
2. God Still Works

1.    Philippians 2:13 – It is God who works in you to do His will

2.    1 Corinthians 10:13 – God will not allow you to be tempted

3.    God promised to never leave us or forsake us. Hebrews 13:5-6

4.    Things are mindless – Romans 8:28

5.    God is aware of each of us – Knows, Loves, Judges

3. Real Life Examples

1.    Romans 11:33-36 Who knows the mind of God?

2.    Hebrews 6:10 God will not forget your work and love

3.    Matthew 10:42 – Give a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple

4.    Ephesians 3:20 – To Him that is able, exceedingly, abundantly, above, all we ask or think

5.    Providence is best recognized “in the rear-view mirror.”