Day 100

Of Divine Providence

Chapter 5, Paragraph 6.

“…and exposeth them to such objects as their corruption makes occasion of sin;…“

Scripture Lookup

Deuteronomy 2:30

2 Kings 8:12,13

Reflection

Normally I don’t have much trouble understanding what is meant in the Confession, but this time I admit the language made me pause. What does this phrase mean? God sometimes exposes the wicked and ungodly to things that, as wicked and ungodly people, they use to sin.

Now God does not tempt the wicked. “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone.” (James 1:13) But He does decree events that enable the wicked to further condemn themselves. They are no longer checked by circumstances that would restrain them, so when opportunity to sin appears, they take it.

The immensity of providence, the fine-tuning of every detail for God’s purposes, is awesome and fearful. Even with those who rebel against Him, He is fully in control. Praise Him for His infinite wisdom and justice!

Questions to Consider

• How do you respond to God’s providence concerning the wicked?