Determined by God
“For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth all his goings.” Proverbs 5:21.
In the run of a day, we deal with so many things that are simply beyond our control. To the natural man this is an anxious and devastating thought, not knowing what will happen next…the feeling that we must have “everything” in control is a trust issue that must be settled in the heart- the truth is we are given by the divine providence of God…direct, indirect or no control at all in any given circumstance-everything moves by the power of God-he is in total control! “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9.
Many often say that people and things in this world are going totally out of control-but, to the Christian we know that things are right on schedule! And if you are reading this and you are not a born-again believer, then you just might be wondering whose schedule? The answer is God’s schedule. “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2. What’s next has been revealed to us in the Word of the Lord!
In the book of Acts 1:7 the disciples questioned Jesus after the resurrection about the end of the Church age; they were excited about His resurrection and wanted to know when they would go with Him. The scripture state “And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.” Jesus gently reminded them that not only was it not necessary for them to know, but that they still had some work to do before the next age.
My friends, the time and seasons are in God’s hands-he determines our paths, we just need to trust that He knows what’s best in every circumstance . . . and while we naturally desire to have a sense of control, know that every new day is just that…a new day full of God’s mercies; and it has its own blessings and challenges. The Word of the Lord reminds us to have this mind- “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24.
The song writer wrote these words: Yesterday’s gone, sweet Jesus and tomorrow may never be mine . . . only in following the guidance of the Holy Spirit can we rest lovingly in God’s care- (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 2 Corinthians 5:7.
No, we don’t need to have total control or know what tomorrow holds…but all of God’s beloved children know that He orders our steps and holds tomorrow in His almighty hands! “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23.
My friends, let us pray for God’s peace, empowerment, and patience to walk this Christian journey according to His will. The Lord will always give us a measure of peace in our hearts when we make everything concerning our lives a matter of prayer. “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7. Hold on to the fact that His promises are faithful and true!
We still have a work to do every day that He allows us to be among the living. So, as the old gospel hymn goes . . . Let us pray to just take one day at a time!
One day at a time, sweet Jesus
That’s all I’m asking from You
Just give me the strength to do everyday
What I have to do
Yesterday’s gone, sweet Jesus
And tomorrow may never be mine
Lord, help me today, show me the way, One day at a time.