33 “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! 34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” 36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:33–36 ESV)
This study concerning the providence of God has been admittedly brief. I never intended this series of monthly articles to provide an in-depth treatment of such a broad and deep biblical doctrine. Other authors have done so and their efforts far exceed my own. I recommend four resources for your continuing study of God’s providence.
First, Providence by John Piper. Dr. Piper provides over 700 pages of extensive and enjoyable reading concerning this subject. Arguably, this is his magnum opus.
“Running through this book like a golden thread is the truth that God designed the world and performs his providence so that his glory in saving us and our joy in seeing him would be forever united, as each increases in the increase of the other,” concludes Piper.
“The all-embracing, all-pervasive, unstoppable providence of God is precious in proportion as we hope for this day to come. And it will come. God will forever be increasingly glorified as we are increasingly satisfied in him.”
Second, Systematic Theology by Dr. Wayne Grudem. This is an excellent resource for the explanation of biblical doctrine in general, and the doctrine of the providence of God in particular.
“The universe is not governed by impersonal fate or luck, but by a personal God. Nothing “just happens—we should see God’s hand in events throughout the day, causing all things to work together for good for those who love him. This confidence in God’s wise providence certainly does not equal superstition, for that is a belief in impersonal or demonic control of circumstances, or control by a capricious deity concerned for meaningless ritual rather than obedience and faith. A deepened appreciation for the doctrine of providence will not make us more superstitious; it will make us trust in God more and obey him more fully.”
Third, Monergism.com. Monergism.com is a free and comprehensive online library dedicated to equipping believers with the riches of Reformed Christian Theology. Its mission is simple yet profound: to glorify Jesus Christ alone by proclaiming the good news that salvation is a free gift of grace for guilty sinners—not a reward for the righteous.
Through a curated collection of classic and contemporary resources, Monergism.com serves as a hub for those seeking to grow in their knowledge of God, embrace the historic Christian faith, and apply biblical truths to all areas of life. It is three-fold mission is to:
(1) Equip Believers: Provide access to the finest articles, books, and sermons that uphold the doctrines of grace and the truths of historic Reformed theology.
(2) Encourage Reformation: Foster a spirit of continual renewal by aligning our beliefs and practices with the Word of God.
(3) Glorify God: Emphasize the Christ-centered nature of Scripture, proclaiming that salvation is entirely a monergistic work of God—accomplished by His grace alone.
Fourth, The Providence of God by Dr. R.C. Sproul. This is a six-part audio teaching series available at Ligonier.org. Topics include (1) What is Providence; (2) God Makes it All Happen; and (3) God or Chance?
May we continue to recognize, understand and trust the LORD; for from Him, and through Him and to Him are all things. May we glorify Him who alone is worthy of all glory, praise and honor.
Soli deo Gloria!
His Word Today 