Don Stewart :: What Is the God's General Providence?

The general providence has to do with the governing and control of the entire universe. The Bible speaks of God's general providence in a number of ways.

It Deals With The Universe At Large

God is in control of the universe at large.

The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all (Psalm 103:19).

Daniel said.

All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: "What have you done" (Daniel 4:35).

Paul wrote.

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will (Ephesians 1:11).

It Encompasses The Physical World

The physical world is under God's providential control.

God thunders wondrously with his voice; he does great things that we cannot comprehend. It serves as a sign on everyone's hand, so that all whom he has made may know it (Job 35:5,7).

The psalmist wrote.

You cause the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for people to use, to bring forth food from the earth (Psalm 104:14).

Jesus said.

So that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45).

He also said.

But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you-you of little faith? (Matthew 6:30).

The Animal Kingdom Is Under God's Care

God looks after the creatures in the animal kingdom.

The lions roar for their prey and seek their food from God (Psalm 104:21).

Jesus spoke of the Father feeding the birds.

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they (Matthew 6:26).

The Affairs Of Nations Are In The Hand Of God

The affairs of nations are in the hand of God.

He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them (Job 12:23).

Summary

The idea behind the general providence of God is that God is looking after and controlling all the parts of the universe. The Bible specifically speaks of God's control over the universe at large, the physical world, the animal kingdom, and the affairs of nations. Therefore every part of the universe is directly under the control of the providence of God.