PONDERING... What are God's works of providence?

This is part of a catechism study we're doing on Sunday mornings.

What are God's works of providence?

God's works of providence are His most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing all His creatures, and all their actions.

• Ephesians 4:24 ESV - "24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
• Isaiah 28:29 ESV - "29 This also comes from the LORD of hosts; he is wonderful in counsel and excellent in wisdom."
• Hebrews 1:3 ESV - "3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,"
• Psalms 103:19 ESV - "19 The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all."
• Matthew 10:29 ESV - "29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father."

His Most Holy, Wise, and Powerful

All that God does is right, and best, and will be accomplished.

Preserving

Upholding, keeping, protecting. By the hand of God, all things are kept--all life continues. But this isn't just an uninvolved notion. God does just "keep the top spinning". He is personally involved in the lives of individuals. Keeping safe His children and working all things to the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Governing

Overseeing, guiding, directing. God does work things according to His will. He is in charge of this world. It's hard for us to see this, but surely all things are part of His plan.

Creatures

Everything. Everybody.

Their Actions

What they do. Oh, the complexity of God's sovereignty and man's responsibility! Are all actions governed by God? Yep. Do we make descisions for which we're responsible? Yep. Are our minds capable of balancing this Devine truth? Nope.