GOD OF PROVIDENCE

GOD OF PROVIDENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 22:13-14

Supporting Texts: Romans 8:28, Philippians 4:19, Psalm 37:25, 1 Kings 17:2-16, Matthew 6:25-33

INTRODUCTION:
The word "Providence" comes from the Latin "providere", meaning “to foresee” or “to provide.” It refers to God's sovereign ability to foresee, provide, and orchestrate events for the good of His children. God's providence is not mere coincidence or luck—it is His divine hand actively working behind the scenes in our lives.

God’s providence is one of the most comforting doctrines for a believer. It means that nothing happens outside of God’s knowledge or control. He knows what we need, when we need it, and how to deliver it—even before we ask. His provision is not only material; it includes protection, guidance, timing, favour, and positioning.

As we explore this topic, we will understand how God’s providence directs our steps, secures our future, and sustains our needs—often in ways we don’t expect, but always for His glory and our good.

1. GOD SEES AHEAD AND PROVIDES
God is never caught by surprise. He anticipates our needs and makes provision beforehand.

a) God is the Great Provider (Genesis 22:14)
Abraham called Him Jehovah Jireh—“The Lord will provide”—after God supplied a ram in place of Isaac.

b) God Knows What You Need Before You Ask (Matthew 6:32)
He is a Father who understands our necessities even before we pray.

c) Divine Provision May Come Unexpectedly (1 Kings 17:4-6)
God fed Elijah with ravens and sustained him at a brook.

d) Providence Often Tests Our Trust and Obedience (Genesis 22:1-2)
Abraham was tested to obey God before seeing the provision.

Biblical Example: Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah—God provided a ram when Abraham acted in faith (Genesis 22:1-14).

2. GOD'S PROVIDENCE DIRECTS OUR STEPS
He is not only the God who provides; He is also the God who leads.

a) God Orders the Steps of the Righteous (Psalm 37:23)
Our lives are not driven by chance but by divine purpose.

b) Sometimes He Closes Doors to Open Better Ones (Acts 16:6-9)
Paul’s journey to Macedonia was a redirection by divine providence.

c) God Uses Even Evil for Our Good (Genesis 50:20)
Joseph declared that what his brothers meant for evil, God turned for good.

d) Trusting God’s Process Leads to His Best (Proverbs 3:5-6)
We must lean not on our understanding but follow His guidance.

Biblical Example: Joseph's journey from pit to palace—Every setback was part of God’s providential plan (Genesis 37-50).

3. GOD PROVIDES ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES
His provision is not limited by the economy, people, or circumstances.

a) God Supplies All Needs According to His Riches (Philippians 4:19)
God’s provision is abundant and not subject to earthly constraints.

b) He Provides in Famine and in Plenty (Psalm 33:18-19)
Even in difficult times, God sustains those who trust in Him.

c) He Provides for Purpose, Not Just Pleasure (2 Corinthians 9:8)
God blesses us so we can abound in good works.

d) God’s Resources Are Unlimited (Haggai 2:8)
The silver and gold belong to Him—He lacks nothing.

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath—God miraculously multiplied flour and oil during a severe famine (1 Kings 17:8-16).

4. GOD’S PROVIDENCE INCLUDES TIMING AND POSITIONING
Providence is not just about what God provides, but when and how He does.

a) There Is a Time for Everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
God’s provision comes at the appointed time.

b) Delays Are Not Denials in God’s Providence (John 11:6–14)
Jesus delayed for Lazarus to die so that a greater miracle would happen.

c) Providence Places Us Where We Need to Be (Esther 4:14)
Esther was positioned in the palace “for such a time as this.”

d) Trust in God’s Timing and Not in Your Emotions (Habakkuk 2:3)
The vision may tarry, but it will surely come.

Biblical Example: Esther's rise to queenship—It was God’s providence that placed her in position to save her people (Esther 4:14).

CONCLUSION:
The God of providence is not distant or passive. He is actively involved in every detail of your life. He sees ahead, plans ahead, and provides in ways beyond your understanding. Your future is not uncertain when your life is in His hands. Even when it seems like nothing is happening, God is working behind the scenes for your good.

Lean into His providence. Trust His timing. Obey His leading. And give Him thanks—not just when the answer comes, but also while you wait—because the God of providence never fails.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for being the God who sees ahead and provides.
2. Lord, order my steps and align me with Your divine plan.
3. Provide supernaturally for every area of lack in my life.
4. Help me to trust Your timing even when I do not understand.
5. Let me be a vessel of Your providence to others in need.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall never lack divine provision—Jehovah Jireh will arise for you!
2. Every door that God has ordained for you shall open at the right time!
3. Your life will become a testimony of divine guidance and sustenance!
4. Even in famine, you shall be satisfied!
5. You are divinely positioned for increase, favour, and supernatural supply!