Proverbs and Providence

*This is the outline of my talk at the James CU Weekend Away.*

Two *Extreme and Inaccurate* Views of God's Will

1. God's will is something which we might miss if we are not careful.

- God's Will of Command vs God's Will of Decree
- We can be outside God's will of command.
- However, we can never be outside God's will of decree.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28 (NIV)

2. God's will is uncertain and unknown, even to God Himself.

BUT

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." - Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." - Proverbs 16:33 (NIV)

"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." - Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)

A Third View of God's Will

3. God's will is exactly what we would desire if we knew all the facts.

- God takes our choices and works them for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28).
- God is in control (Proverbs 16:9, 16:33, 19:21).
- God intends all things - even evil - for good.

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." - Genesis 50:20 (NIV)

"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross." - Acts 2:22-23 (NIV)

"Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen." - Acts 4:27-28 (NIV)

A Way Forward

"A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?" - Proverbs 20:24 (NIV)

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." - Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Conclusion

What is God's will for my life?

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

How can I know it?

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)