Look for Jesus IN Your Story, Not a Moral to Your Story

01/30/2023

By Pastor Joe Romeo

"Look for Jesus IN Your Story, Not a Moral to Your Story"

“Providence is gospel consolation.” So said John Webster (1955–2016). Providence refers to God’s orchestration of all the events of this world—including our lives—to his intended end. God’s providence is purposeful. Nothing is random. According to the Belgic Confession, “This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father, who watches over us with fatherly care, sustaining all creatures under his lordship, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that God holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without divine permission and will.” Perhaps the most well-known Old Testament story that reveals God’s purposeful providence is the life of Joseph. Joseph’s words, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Gen. 50:20) have comforted (and continue to comfort) countless saints throughout history. For this reason, I encourage you to read Scotty Smith’s prayer this morning, which is based on Genesis 50:20.