Last week I mentioned how God coaches us through His providence. I like the definition for providence found in Webster’s 1828 ⁽³⁾ dictionary that says it this way:

In theology, the care and superintendence which God exercises over his creatures. He that acknowledges a creation and denies a providence involves himself in a palpable contradiction; for the same power which caused a thing to exist is necessary to continue its existence.

This is comforting as a child of God because we need care with oversight that gives us direction, and who is better able to provide this than the One with omnipotent authority.  Because of our human nature, we can easily to go astray and operate outside of God’s authority.  We see this example demonstrated in the Old Testament continually.

• Can you relate?
• Is there a time that comes to mind where you know you strayed from God’s will?
• Have you ever found yourself to be the inattentive one in your relationship with Christ?

Psalm 119:176 is profitable for memorization for those times when we realize that we are following our own ways more than God’s.  It’s a nice little wake-up call that says:

I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

Without a doubt, and for this very reason, God’s children need to stick close to God, the great I Am.  The reality check is that He alone is the source that:

• Feeds us and causes us to grow: John 6:35 (KJV)

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

• Illuminates His truth and knowledge in this dark world: John 8:12 (KJV)

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

• Gave His life to lead, protect and govern us: John 10:11 (KJV)

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

He is the only source that will provide the resources necessary to perfect new beginnings and grow us in the truth and knowledge of Him.

Copyright © Speak True Life, Wanda J. Murry, January 9, 2019

[Eternal security is found “in Christ” and there is a plan already in place to guide you to there:  Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:12, 10:9; 1 John 1:9]