God of Providence

In each of our readings today we saw servants of God suffering affliction. Naomi loses her husband and two sons. In those days that was a big thing. It meant living in impoverished conditions, and even in danger, especially if you were a woman.

Paul found himself in a boat that was storm tossed for over 14 days. Not only did he receive minimal food during that time, but he had to endure the nauseous experience of being carried up and down, up and down by the sea. (Personally I have found that experience pretty brutal to endure.)

Jeremiah, too, had his sufferings. He was unjustly placed in a prison. There was something about the truth of his message that his auditors did not like, and decided to take it out on him.

Three different servants of God, all apparently serving their Lord faithfully, but all experiencing affliction. This certainly shows us that God does not keep His servants from suffering! But that is not the whole story. In each case God's providence shines through as well.

Naomi is given a daughter-in-law who is second to none. She clings to Naomi and Naomi's God and serves her faithfully. God also provides the grace of Boaz who looks with favor on Ruth, and is God's instrument of provision (of food) and protection (from other men who might try to take advantage of Ruth).

Paul is assured in a dream that he will be taken care of - that God would provide. God was not finished with him yet and would work out all the details so that Paul could complete the work set out for him. So God not only provides safety amidst the shipwreck, but also keeps Paul in the good graces of the leaders so that he is not put to death. God again shows his amazing providence.

Jeremiah, too, was shown grace. The king calls for him wondering if he has received word from the Lord. (I am sure he was hoping for a different word, but Jeremiah's message stayed consistent.) Upon answering the king, Jeremiah requests mercies - to stay out of prison, and the king grants him a better place to stay, and bread to eat.

Thus, in each case though the Lord permits affliction, in the midst of affliction God shows Himself to be a God of providence; a God who provides for His servants.

In these days of great uncertainly (global terror, stock market crash, unemployment) it is important to remember that though the Lord may allow affliction, He is still on the throne, and will, in His time, provide for His servant who trusts in Him and continues to serve Him with gladness.

Brothers and sisters, take heart. Don't let your current affliction get you down. Your life is in the hand of God. Look to Him in faith. Serve Him faithfully. His providence may be just around the corner.