The Purpose Behind Providence—God’s Glory in All Things (Chapter 5, Paragraph 7)

“As the providence of God doth in general reach to all creatures…”

This line summarizes the consistent message of Chapter 5: God’s providence governs everything, from the smallest creature to the grandest movement of empires. Nothing falls outside of His sovereign control (Ps. 103:19). But providence does not function as a mechanical force—it flows from the personal, wise, and purposeful will of God.

“…so after a more special manner it taketh care of His church…”

Here we see a beautiful truth: God’s providence is special toward His people. Though all creatures are governed by His hand, His eye and heart are uniquely directed toward His church—the bride of Christ, the people for whom Christ died. Just as a father may care for many things, but especially for his children, so God orders the world for the eternal good of His elect.

Romans 8:28 echoes this: “All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” That doesn’t mean all things are pleasant—but that all things are purposeful.

“…and disposeth all things to the good thereof.”

This includes hardship. God uses trials, loss, and opposition to strengthen His people. It also includes blessing—providing comfort, guidance, and encouragement through His Word, His Spirit, and His church. Whether through adversity or abundance, He is sanctifying His saints.

But the good God brings about is not always what we would define as comfort or ease—it is Christlikeness. God’s providence is shaping believers to be conformed to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29), fitting them for glory.

“God’s providence reveals the variety and wisdom of His purposes…”

God doesn’t treat every person the same. His providence is not a rigid formula—it reflects the rich variety of His will. This diversity reveals the wisdom of God, who always acts appropriately and justly. He may raise one up and bring another low. He may allow the same Word to harden one heart and melt another. And yet, in it all, He is consistent with His character, accomplishing what is best.

“…so that they who are hardened may be justly condemned…”

God may allow some to continue in sin, hardening their hearts as judgment for their rebellion. This is not unjust. They are judged for their sin, not for His providence. Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, not because God coerced evil, but because God removed restraint. And in doing so, He revealed His power and justice to all nations (Ex. 9:16).

“…while others receive mercy and are effectually drawn to faith and obedience by His providence.”

What a glorious contrast: while some persist in unbelief, others are graciously drawn to faith. God uses means—sermons, sufferings, friendships, even failures—to call His people. His providence is the stage where His grace meets us. The kindness of God leads us to repentance (Rom. 2:4), and even affliction may be the tool He uses to awaken us to His mercy.

This is not fate. This is not chaos. This is the wise and merciful hand of God, working through real events in real time to accomplish His unchanging purpose.

Application for the Believer:

No matter what path you walk, trust that God’s providence is not random—it is personal. He sees you. He is shaping you. He is working even your pain, your delays, your mistakes into a greater plan. And while others may remain hardened, you have been given mercy. Let that humble you. Praise Him for His kindness. And when His ways seem mysterious, rest in this: He is always wise, always good, and always working for His glory and your eternal joy. Look at your life through the lens of providence, and you’ll see not chance, but grace at every turn.