I've started to work through John Flavel's The Mystery of Providence (Carlisle, Pennsylvania: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1998). I appreciate chewing through Flavel's old English; it was originally published in 1678. More importantly, I have been very encouraged by his exposition about Providence and how God directs all the details of our lives (although He is not the author of sin, but may use our sinfulness for His ultimate purposes).
In his introduction, Flavel speaks of how we do not yet have the full view of what God is doing in our lives. Our perspective is so limited, and too often we grumble against what we do not understand. But one day we will.
O how ravishing and delectable a sight will it be to behold at one view the whole design of Providence, and the proper place and use of every single act, which we could not understand in this world! (22).
It is comforting to know that God is in control. A few months ago (on two occasions), the illustration was shared of God weaving a beautiful tapestry throughout time. As finite humans, we can only see the underside of this big, magnificent rug / quilt / piece of art. We see the strings going in all directions, the knots, the mish-mash of colours, etc. But from "above," God the Great Designer is weaving a masterpiece. One with purpose, with order, and with beauty.
He gets the glory. We fit into the story. But we don't see it all at the moment. That is what it means to live and walk and love in trust.
2 comments:
I've got Flavel's book on my list for reading this summer. We often limit ourselves to a certain place and time, but it's so important to see history as a unified whole, with God as the author and the one who holds it all together and directs it. Keep posting about the book, I'd really like to hear more thoughts on it as you go along.
I certainly will, Jake! It has actually been fun to work through the "old English." (At the very least, it makes me feel like my vocabulary is expanding!) :)
I'll keep you posted.
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