Many people don’t want to believe it, but God is in charge of all of life, even disruptions.
Psalm 37:23-24 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
The Lord sends the valley seasons to develop us and to make us more like the Lord Jesus, Rom. 8:29; Eph. 4:13.
William Cowper, the great hymn writer (including There Is A Fountain), often lived in depression.
One day He hired a carriage driver to take him to London Bridge, planning to throw himself into the river and end his life.
On the way to the bridge they found themselves driving for hours in dense fog. Frustrated, Cowper demanded that the driver stop and let him out to walk.
When he stepped from the carriage, he was shocked to find that he was standing in front of his own door.
It became apparent to him that the Lord still had a use for his life. He entered his home and penned the words to that famous song, “God works in mysterious ways”.
When we are in the valley, we need a fresh encounter with the Lord!
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God moves in a mysterious way. — His wonders to perform; — He plants His footsteps in the sea — And rides upon the storm. — Deep in unfathomable mines — Of never failing skill, — He treasures up His bright designs — And works His sovereign will.
“Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; — The clouds ye so much dread — Are big with mercy and shall break — In blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, — But trust Him for His grace; — Behind a frowning providence — He hides a smiling face.
“His purposes will ripen fast, — Unfolding every hour; — The bud may have a bitter taste, —. But sweet will be the flower. — Blind unbelief is sure to err — And scan His work in vain; — God is His own interpreter, — And He will make it plain.”
William Cowper 1731-1800
Ideas for this unprofitable blog are taken from The Sermon Notebook—Biblical resources for preachers and teachers of the word of God. They allow these sermons to be used as the Lord leads but not for profit.
