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Reverend Paul Collings BTh (Hons) - - - - paul.collings@methodist.org.uk - - - - 01392 206229 - - - - 07941 880768

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Friday, 6 October 2023

God’s providential care

Romans 8:28 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.


I wonder how much that initial statement is true for each of us. “….we know that all that happens to us is working for our good…..”? But we need to read both halves of the verse, “…..if we love God and are fitting into his plans.


This is God calling us into cooperation with him. What an honour and privilege, Just consider the dignity and honour that we are  given and ask that we may act in a way that shows our appreciation of God-working-with-us.


Whilst God's purpose is not always evident to us. We can  pray for trust and patience and for the ability to persevere. 


Corrie Ten Boom recalls, “Often I have heard people say, "How good God is! We prayed that it would not rain for our church picnic, and look at the lovely weather!'" Yes, God is good when He sends good weather. But God was also good when He allowed my sister, Betsie, to starve to death before my eyes in a German concentration camp. 


I remember one occasion when I was very discouraged there. Everything around us was dark, and there was darkness in my heart. I remember telling Betsie that I thought God had forgotten us. "No, Corrie," said Betsie, "He has not forgotten us. Remember His Word: 'For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His steadfast love toward those who fear Him.'" Corrie concludes, "There is an ocean of God's love available--there is plenty for everyone. May God grant you never to doubt that victorious love--whatever the circumstances."


I sure that many of us would that we had the faith that Corrie had, but one thing is certain, we have God’s goodness. Craig Groeschel in his book, ‘The Christian Atheist: Believing in God Living As if He Doesn’t Exists writes, “If God has done what you think he should do, trust him. If God doesn't do what you think he should do, trust him. If you pray and believe God for a miracle and he does it, trust him. If your worst nightmare comes true, believe he is sovereign. Believe he is good.” 


May we  take time to think of how God has turned things to our good in the past, giving thanks for blessings, letting go of the plans that we  have for ourselves.


Heavenly Father, thank You for being our strength when we are weak. Thank you for your promises that speak love and peace into our lives every day. Help me to trust your Word and claim it to be truth! Please help us to wait on Your perfectly timed plans, fully surrendering our lives to Your leading. In Jesus’ Name, Amen



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