DIVINE PROVIDENCE

Title: DIVINE PROVIDENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 22:14
"And Abraham called the name of the place, The Lord Will Provide; as it is said to this day, 'In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided.'"

Supporting Texts: Philippians 4:19, Psalm 23:1, Matthew 6:26, Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11

INTRODUCTION:
Divine providence refers to God’s sovereign care, guidance, and provision for His creation. It is the assurance that God is always at work in the lives of His people, orchestrating events for their good and His glory. Divine providence goes beyond meeting physical needs; it encompasses spiritual, emotional, and circumstantial provisions. In this sermon, we explore the nature, principles, and benefits of divine providence.

1. UNDERSTANDING DIVINE PROVIDENCE

a) God’s Sovereign Care:
God sustains and provides for His creation (Psalm 145:15-16).

b) His Timely Provision:
God meets needs at the right time (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

c) It Is Comprehensive:
Divine providence covers all aspects of life (Philippians 4:19).

d) It Reflects God’s Faithfulness:
God is faithful to His promises (Numbers 23:19).

e) Biblical Example: Abraham experienced God’s providence when a ram was provided for the sacrifice (Genesis 22:13-14).

2. KEYS TO ACCESSING DIVINE PROVIDENCE

a) Trust in God:
Faith unlocks God’s provision (Proverbs 3:5-6).

b) Obedience to God’s Word:
Obedience ensures we remain under God’s provision (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

c) Prayer and Dependence:
Prayer invites divine intervention (Matthew 7:7-8).

d) Seeking God First:
Prioritising God’s kingdom attracts His providence (Matthew 6:33).

e) Biblical Example: Elijah was sustained during famine through God’s instructions and provision (1 Kings 17:4-6).

3. CHARACTERISTICS OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE

a) It Is Unconditional:
God provides even when we are undeserving (Matthew 5:45).

b) It Is Abundant:
God’s provision exceeds human expectations (John 10:10).

c) It Is Personalised:
God meets individual needs uniquely (Isaiah 41:10).

d) It Demonstrates God’s Love:
Providence is an expression of God’s care (1 Peter 5:7).

e) Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath experienced abundant provision through divine intervention (1 Kings 17:13-16).

4. BENEFITS OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE

a) Peace of Mind:
Knowing God provides removes anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7).

b) Confidence in God’s Plan:
Divine providence assures us that all things work for good (Romans 8:28).

c) Fulfilment of Purpose:
God provides the resources needed to fulfil destiny (Jeremiah 29:11).

d) Testimonies of God’s Faithfulness:
Providence leads to testimonies of God’s goodness (Psalm 126:1-3).

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites experienced God’s provision in the wilderness with manna and quails (Exodus 16:12-15).

5. HOW TO REMAIN UNDER DIVINE PROVIDENCE

a) Live a Life of Gratitude:
Thanksgiving sustains divine blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

b) Maintain a Relationship with God:
Abiding in Christ ensures continual provision (John 15:7).

c) Walk in Righteousness:
A righteous life attracts God’s providence (Psalm 34:10).

d) Be Generous to Others:
Helping others opens the door for more provision (Proverbs 11:25).

e) Biblical Example: Ruth experienced divine providence because of her loyalty and righteousness (Ruth 2:12).

CONCLUSION:
Divine providence assures us that God is in control and will always provide for His people. When we trust Him, obey His Word, and seek His kingdom, we position ourselves to experience His supernatural provision. Remember, God’s providence is not limited by human circumstances. Trust Him today, and He will meet all your needs.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for being my provider and sustainer.

2. Lord, help me to trust in Your divine providence always.

3. Father, remove every obstacle to my access to Your provision.

4. Lord, meet every need in my life according to Your riches in glory.

5. Father, guide me to the place of abundance You have prepared for me.

6. Lord, open doors of divine provision in every area of my life.

7. Father, help me to walk in obedience to Your Word.

8. Lord, let my life testify of Your supernatural providence.

9. Father, make me a channel of blessings to others.

10. Lord, perfect all that concerns me by Your divine providence.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will never lack because the Lord is your shepherd.

2. The doors of divine provision are opening for you now.

3. Every need in your life is being met by God’s supernatural supply.

4. The Lord will guide you to opportunities that bring abundance.

5. You will be a testimony of God’s divine providence.

6. The resources required to fulfil your destiny will locate you.

7. Every limitation in your life is broken by God’s provision.

8. The Lord will sustain you in times of famine and lack.

9. Your barns will overflow, and your cup will run over.

10. Divine providence will distinguish you among your peers.