In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, we become more aware of the providence of God in our lives. His fingerprints are all over our daily activities as we walk by faith. In Philippians 1:6 the apostle writes, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus”. Later in the chapter he writes, “…for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:19).
Deists believe there is a God who created the world and is inactive in the affairs of mankind. They believe this creator God will only intervene in history at the end of time. It’s like God created the world, winds up a timer, sits back, and when it dings, He steps back into our world.
Theists (that’s us) believe God created the world and is actively involved in our daily lives in every way. We know Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven and works in our lives. We also know the Holy Spirit is active in our lives. Top this theological topic off with prayer to our heavenly Father and we have a trifecta.
We need to be very aware of God’s providential care in our lives. The song Aware by Salvador helps.
Listen to it after reading Philippians 4:4-13 and enjoy walking with God through your day.
Philippians 4:4-13
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. As for the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked an opportunity to act. Not that I speak from need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.