Nothing whatever, whether great or small, can happen to a believer — without God’s ordering and permission.

(J.C. Ryle, ‘The Gospel of Luke‘ 1858) courtesy of gracegems.org

‘I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that can do no more.  . . . Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid — you are worth more than many sparrows!’

The last thing that demands our attention in these verses, is Christ’s encouragement to persecuted believers. He reminds them of God’s providential care over the least of His creatures: ‘Not one sparrow is forgotten by God!’ He goes on to assure them that the same Fatherly care is engaged on behalf of each one of themselves: ‘The very hairs of your head are all numbered!’ 

The providential government of God over everything in this world is a truth of which the Greek and Roman philosophers had no conception. It is a truth which is especially revealed to us in the Word of God. Just as the telescope and microscope show us that there is order and design in all the works of God’s hand, from the greatest planet down to the least insect — so does the Bible teach us that there is wisdom, order, and design in all the events of our daily life. There is no such thing as ‘chance,’ ‘luck,’ or ‘accident’ in the Christian’s journey through this world! If we profess to be believers in Jesus Christ — then all is arranged and appointed by God.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28.

Let us seek to have an abiding sense of God’s hand in all that befalls us. Let us strive to realize that our Father’s hand is measuring out our daily portion — and that our every step is ordered by Him.

A daily practical faith of this kind, is one grand secret of happiness — and a mighty antidote against murmuring and discontent!

We should try to feel in the day of trial and disappointment — that all is right, and that all is well done. We should try to feel on the bed of sickness — that there must be a ‘needs be’ for it. We should say to ourselves, ‘God could keep these afflictions away from me — if He thought fit. But He does not do so, and therefore they must be for my advantage. I will lie still, and bear them patiently. Whatever pleases God — shall please me!’

Nothing whatever, whether great or small, can happen to a believer — without God’s ordering and permission.

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