The Providence of God: The Purpose

God’s plan allowed Joseph to prosper through a perilous path and to be in place to provide food for the land including his own family who came to Egypt in search of food (Genesis 42: 3). Romans 8: 28 says, “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.” God used an intricately, planned chain of events to lead to an amazing outcome for Israel’s children! Oftentimes, hindsight affords us the grace of seeing how God has worked in our lives to use us for his purpose in building his kingdom. How has God used your life, your testimony, or your tests to bless others through you or to bless you through others? 

First, look back at your life and see where you live, what turn of events got you to this place, this job, this school, this church, this profession? What about that person who you held the door for, the family you blessed for Christmas, that friend you were able to loan money to, the family of friend you were able to comfort in the loss of their loved one, the hope you shared with a co-worker or friend who confided their negative diagnosis and/or prognosis, that wife and children you helped to get shelter from an abusive situation, that young person you were able to encourage and advise through your own past, how you helped someone being bullied or talked about, or how your prayers of faith prevail on behalf of friends, family, church members, pastors, the country, and yourself?

Secondly, see yourself on both sides of these situations in the providence of God; who has blessed you? The Bible declares that all things work together for good and he uses all things to brings us closer to his will for our lives. Romans 12: 2 says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Reading and meditating on God’s Word helps us to renew our minds, to share his blessings, and to see how we are blessed and blessed to be a blessing. The providence of God positioned Joseph in the plan to prepare to serve God’s purpose. Joseph was able to provide food for Egypt and his family (the Israelites) in a foreign country (Genesis 47: 12). We do not always know God’s plan, but we can always trust that all things will be used for his purpose. Please come back and visit as we conclude with Post #3d and consider the perfection of God’s providence.

Be blessed

Pastor Kirkland