If the Lord's your shepherd, that makes you His sheep. Psalm 23 (NIV) A psalm of David. 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary Psalm 23 is certainly on any top 5 list of recognizable scriptures, maybe even in the top two. This Psalm has brought peace and comfort to scores of people throughout the generations, to both those who know God well and those who barely know His name. Often times people misunderstand theology to be dry and boring. Psalm 23 proves that quite the opposite is true: while it may be famous for its unsurpassed poetic beauty, Psalm 23 is pure theology, describing the relationship between you and your very personal Shepherd-King. Notice how David underscores just how personal this relationship is. He doesn't just write that God is our shepherd, although that would certainly be accurate as well, but he writes that the Lord is my shepherd. This is the relationship you must have with Him. For too many people, the Lord is just our God. Make sure that you can say with David that He's my shepherd. Your shepherd takes a very active role in your life. He makes you lie down, leads you, refreshes your soul, guides you, prepares a table before you, anoints your head with oil, as His goodness and love follows you all the days of your life. Surely you lack nothing. Dig Deeper While nearly everyone loves the idea of a loving Shepherd supplying us with green pastures and quiet waters, most people ultimately (although unconsciously) reject the overall premise of Psalm 23, because nobody wants to think of themself as a sheep. Sheep are dumb and completely dependent. Your sinful nature strives to convince you that you're anything but a sheep; it wants you to consider yourself as being wiser than God and fully independent. You're certainly not dumb. Biblical theology teaches exactly the opposite, understanding you to be made in God's image with the ability to think, contemplate and feel complex & deep emotions. Psalm 23 is encouraging you to have the attitude of a sheep, not its intellect. This is exactly what Jesus meant when He told His disciples that those who are poor in Spirit, that is, completely dependent upon their shepherd, will be blessed. Having a strong understanding of God's providence helps you hold the tension you've been designed to live in. On one hand, learn to follow your shepherd's leading. On the other, remember that providence doesn't teach us to just 'let go and let God.' You're called here to walk through the darkest valley knowing God is with you, not be carried. So know Psalm 23 well, not just because it's a beautiful and famous poem, but because of the awesome theology it poetically imparts. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Make me lie down in green pastures, lead me beside quiet waters, and refresh my soul; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: Matthew 5

This certain promise bring comfort or skepticism. The better you understand it, the more comfort you'll experience. Romans 8:28–30 (ESV) 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary One of the best things about Biblical Christianity is the certainty it provides. We don't just have a really good feeling, an intensely strong desire, or merely want things to work out for the good. No, writes Paul, we know this to be absolutely true: all things - not just a few things or even many things - all things are working together for good. But not for everyone. This certain promise is applied only to those who "love God... and are called according to His purpose." This exclusive cohort is cast in rock solid certainty as well. Those to whom this promise applies, who love God, are those whom God foreknew. That is, those who, as Paul explains to the Ephesians, God knew before the creation of the cosmos. The reason you can know this with such certainty is because of what's often referred to here as the golden chain of your salvation: God wasn't just familiar with you ahead of time He predestined you, meaning He set you apart. He then called you out of the darkness of sin to be justified through faith in Christ (meaning just-as-if-I'd never sinned and always obeyed) so that in Him you've been glorified. Notice all of these verbs are past tense. It's already happened. This is why you can be so certain. Dig Deeper This is the kind of providence that we like. An all powerful, sovereign God who is making everything turn out awesome for those who love Him. At least that's the way most people want to understand this famous verse. How's that working out for you? Is everything awesome in your life? For some it is! But that fortunate group may or may not include you. But no matter where you come down on that continuum, don't fall into the trap of skepticism. All things absolutely are working together for good for those that love God, but the problem is we want to understand good from the world's perspective: a beautiful home and family, a successful and lucrative career, and fulfilling hobbies and relationships. Then when those 'good' things don't always materialize, it quickly seems like this promise is just hot air. We've already looked at many of the exclusive qualifications applied to this promise, but the primary qualification is that all things will work together for the good of "those who are called according to God's purpose." And just so we're not confused, that purpose is made explicit in the very next verse: it's to conform those who love God into the image of His Son. The things that are 'good' in making you more Christlike often look far different than what we tend to think of as being good. Know that in all things - good and bad - God is at work doing exactly what He's intended for you from before the dawn of time: glorifying you as one of the many brothers of Christ. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who works all things together for good; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that you will be thankful for the good things in your life making you more Christlike, and patient as even the bad things are used by God to fulfill His purpose for you; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: Matthew 4

Everything - both good & bad - is 'a God thing.' Acts 2:22–24 (NIV) CONTEXT: After be filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter has just begun preaching his famous Pentecost sermon. 22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary People want to hear positive, encouraging messages when they come to church that build them up and make them feel better about themselves and their situation. At least that's what we as preachers are often told by the myriad of self appointed preaching gurus who produce popular articles, books and videos 'guaranteed' to result in explosive growth at any church who follows their advice. Apparently Peter didn't get their materials, because one of the first things he does in his sermon is accuse the congregation of killing the very Savior God had sent for them. "You," Peter tells those assembled, "you, along with the help of wicked men, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross." Not exactly positive and encouraging stuff here! But perhaps the most shocking claim that Peter makes is about God. Jesus' ministry didn't end in an unexpected and unintended tragedy when He was nailed to the cross. No, Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, indicates that Jesus' gruesome death on a cross was the result of "God's deliberative plan and foreknowledge." In other words, God knew about, and was planning on, the events of Good Friday at the very same moment the angels filled the sky with songs on Christmas morning. But God's deliberative plan and foreknowledge didn't come to an end with Jesus' final agonized breath. Peter makes clear in his sermon the primary message of the gospel: that "God raised Jesus from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him." Dig Deeper It's so easy to associate the concept of God's providence with simply the provision of all of the good stuff in life: family, homes, food, jobs, and so on. Sometimes when some seemingly random thing happens that ends up preventing a big tragedy, we're quick to see God's hand in it; sometimes we even refer to it as 'a God thing.' These things certainly are the result of providence, and we ought to be thankful for it. But Peter's sermon here tells us that everything that happens is the result of God's providence. Everything that occurs - good and bad - is a God thing. Even the most awful thing possible, the crucifixion of Jesus, happened as the result of God's "deliberative plan and foreknowledge." Our Confession, reflecting the whole of scripture, reminds us that even though God providentially allows bad things to happen, and that He even uses these bad things as He used Jesus' execution, God "is not the author of, nor can He be charged with, the sin that occurs." Peter makes this clear as well. Although God planned for and used what happened to Jesus, Peter tells the crowd that "you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death" (this indictment includes us, by the way, since most of the people listening to Peter were not present at Jesus' trial and crucifixion either). I don't know what's in store for you this week, and neither do you. But one thing we can be sure of is that whatever does occur, be it good or bad, will be part of God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who providentially controls all things; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that you will feel the peace that comes from knowing God is in control, especially when it's difficult to see or understand why certain things happen; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: Matthew 3

Having stuff is good, but it's the thought that counts! John 10:22–30 (NIV) 22 Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.” 31 Again his Jewish opponents picked up stones to stone him... -- 39 Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary It might give you a warm, fuzzy feeling to hear Jesus describe you as His sheep, but the context in which He spoke these words was anything but warm and fuzzy. Jesus isn't conversing with a group of truly curious people eagerly seeking the truth, but with representatives of the religious establishment trying to protect their turf. Jesus drops several high powered theological bombs on them, telling these people straight up that they're not His sheep, so they'll never truly believe, and He ends by reiterating that He and His Father are one. This was the kind of 'blasphemy' the crowd actually wanted to hear, so they don't waste a moment in picking up rocks to stone Jesus with. This wasn't even their first attempt; John writes "Again his Jewish opponents picked up stones..." What grabs our attention today is the security that Jesus' words here give to His sheep. You belong to the Father, and He's given you to Christ, and no one can snatch you out of either Jesus' or our Father's hand! Jesus' words here describing God's providence are much more than just a abstract lesson. Jesus miraculously escapes "their grasp" even though their hell bent on stoning Him. In the same way, you can trust that your Father's grip will always be stronger than the forces of evil in this world. Dig Deeper What a line our Confession uses here: In this thought we rest, knowing that our Father holds in check the devils and all our enemies. All of our expensive resources meant to provide us rest and recreation are good blessings that we ought to give thanks for, but always remember that true rest and peace comes through thought. Physical things certainly bring physical comfort, but full shalom can only come through the theology we read, hear, and think about that flows from God's Word. You probably don't think you know any of the Epicureans mentioned in the Confession, but you do. While it's true that very few people attach that label to themselves any more, the strong emphasis on personal contentment, skepticism of religion's role in public life, and the belief in the centrality of human experience reflect a continuation of Epicurean influence in contemporary society. In that all of these thoughts lead people from reliance on God to reliance upon themselves and luck, our Confession is right to harshly call this a damnable error. Don't fall for it! Find your rest in knowing that you are Christ's sheep, and are firmly gripped and guarded by your all powerful God! AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who is "greater than all"; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Thank God for His providential grip on your life and pray that more and more this thought will bring you rest and peace; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: Matthew 2

Providence simply means 'to see beforehand.' Genesis 45:1–8 (NIV) CONTEXT: Joseph, who had been sold into slavery by his brothers, only to ascend to the second most powerful man in Egypt, crosses paths with his brothers again as they look for food, and they're terrified that he'll take revenge. Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Have everyone leave my presence!” So there was no one with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. 2 And he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household heard about it. 3 Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still living?” But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence. 4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Come close to me.” When they had done so, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! 5 And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. 6 For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. 7 But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 “So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt. Genesis 50:20 (NIV) 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary It's hard to tell what Joseph was thinking as the emotions he'd suppressed for decades finally escape in a cry so loud that the entire palace heard it. He'd been through so much: estranged from his father by his own brothers, who chose the 'merciful' option of selling him as a slave in a far off land rather than killing him outright; he'd worked his way to the top of wherever he ended up, only to have the rug pulled out from underneath him on multiple occasions. And now here stand the very men who'd sent him down this uncharted path nearly a lifetime ago. They didn't recognize him; why would they? They'd sold him into slavery, and slaves were quickly worked to death and replaced. Besides, they'd staged his gory death to trick their father, and in the process they likely convinced themselves that they'd never see their arrogant little brother again. But there he stood dressed in the finest clothes as the administrator of one of the most sophisticated cultures in history, and there they stood with their hats in their hands, hoping for just enough food to survive. Certainly they'd be getting what they deserved, which wasn't food, so they were properly terrified. But rather than revenge they had coming, they got a lesson in theology. "It was not you who sent me here, but God," Joseph told them. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Dig Deeper RC Sproul explains the concept of God's providence much better than I can (then again, Dr. Sproul explains nearly everything much better than I can!). Sproul breaks down the word providence into its core components. It begins with the the prefix pro, which means "in front of" or "before." The root of the word is vide, which you probably don't recognize until you add the vowel o to the end of it: video. So the word providence literally means to see beforehand. What a perfect way to remember what God's providence is! He who sees all things beforehand sovereignly orders the things He sees to correspond with and fulfill His will. God saw beforehand the years of famine that would be coming, and He sovereignly put his servant Joseph in the right place at the right time to meet the needs of not just God's covenant people, but the entire world! So it's hard to imagine the depth of Joseph's emotions as he cried out before his brothers, finally understanding the often mysterious doctrine of God's providence. You may not be able to see how it is that your present situation is part of God's plan, but you can take comfort in His providence knowing that He has seen beforehand and is working out all things for your salvation. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who providentially controls all things; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that just like Joseph's brothers you will let go of your fear and learn to trust in God's providence; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: Matthew 1

"Where God closes His holy mouth, I will desist from inquiry." Acts 1:4-9 (NIV) CONTEXT: Jesus is speaking with his disciples for the last time on earth before He ascends into heaven. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. Pro-video In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary I'll bet the tension was thick as Jesus spoke to the disciples. As He ate with them, He tells them to "wait for the gift my Father promised." After hearing this, the disciples "gather around Jesus." You could probably hear a pin drop at this point, and you might expect one of them to ask Jesus to tell them more about this "gift" that would come from the Father. And what about this "Holy Spirit" Jesus had just told them about? Yes, Jesus had already explained quite a bit to them about the Holy Spirit the night before He'd been arrested (we read about this in John 14 here and here), but that was well over a month before. You would think that Jesus' comments here would have sparked a massive curiosity! But the first thing the disciples ask Jesus in response really has nothing to do with what Jesus just told them. Rather than ask Jesus to elaborate on what He did say, they ask Him a question about something He's never mentioned ever at all: restoring the kingdom to Israel! Jesus quickly quells their out of bounds question by telling them it's none of their business to know the dates set by the Father, and He pivots right back to explaining what He expects them to do when they "receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you." Then, just like that, Jesus was "taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight." The opportunity for them to directly inquire of God incarnate had come to end. Dig Deeper The disciples at this point are still stuck to their deeply embedded desire for the Davidic kingdom of Israel to be restored. Rather than letting Jesus' words dictate their desire, they use their last opportunity to ask Jesus a question to try to wrestle Him into fulfilling their preconceived notions. The truth is we're all far more curious about what the Bible hasn't revealed about God, the future, and why things are the way they are than what we are about the reams of information the Bible does reveal. John Calvin had a massive theological curiosity. He answered questions from the Bible most of the rest of us would never even think to even ask. His writing pushed to the very boundaries of what the Bible teaches. But Calvin never pushed beyond those boundaries. He famously said, "Where God closes His holy mouth, I will desist from inquiry." This certainly doesn't mean you should stop asking questions! Quite the opposite, in fact! It's quite likely that the Bible does answer your most difficult questions; it's just that you need to look deeper into what you've already too quickly glanced over. Our Confession's point to us today simply is "to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits." It's good to have a healthy curiosity! Answering one question often leads to a whole set of new questions! Keep following the trail, but be content when God responds you your questions with the gentle reminder to just "be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10)." AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who has gifted us with His Holy Spirit; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that the Spirit will increase your theological curiosity while at the same time giving you peace with questions that go beyond what God has revealed; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: James 5

God provides both whales and worms in your life. Jonah 4 (NIV) CONTEXT: After Jonah finally gets to Nineveh, he delivers history's shortest sermon. Even though Jonah's proclamation is half-hearted, he's still proclaiming the powerful word of the Lord, and the Lord uses it to convict and convert the evil Ninevites. 4 But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. 2 He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. 3 Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.” 4 But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?” 5 Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. 6 Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. 7 But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. 8 When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.” 9 But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?” “It is,” he said. “And I’m so angry I wish I were dead.” 10 But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. 11 And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?” Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. Pro-video In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary You wouldn't be wrong if you concluded that the book of Jonah was all about God's grace shown to the wicked Ninevites. You could also make a good argument that the point of the book is showcasing God's authority and power in pursuing his runaway prophet, even using comedic and ironic means to pull Jonah back to Him. But this short, entertaining and memorable little book of the Bible is about much more than unmerited grace and divine sovereignty. It's a picture of God's providence, and especially how God's providence prevails despite man's sinful efforts to derail it. When Jonah thought he had escaped on the ship, God provided the storm that nearly sank the ship. When the sailors reluctantly threw Jonah overboard, God provided the great fish that swallowed him up before vomiting him back onto the shore. Jonah wasn't happy with God's providence of grace and mercy towards the wicked Ninevites. Jonah had looked forward to watching them get pelted with the fire and brimstone they deserved. God had told him to "go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it (1:1)," so Jonah did. But Jonah's eight word sermon was less than half the length of God's initial command to go to Nineveh. Jonah told God he'd rather die than see God provide grace and compassion to such undeserving people. It's in the final passage of the book that we see the complexity of God's providence on full display. First God graciously provided a nice shade plant for Jonah to wallow under. But the very next morning, God provided a worm that ate the plant, after which God provided a scorching east wind which compounds Jonah's misery. Dig Deeper When we think of God's providence, we often associate it with all of the wonderful blessings that God provides. But what our passage teaches us today is that God doesn't just provide good things, like the shade plant, but that He also provides the worms, hot winds and scorching sun! Theologically, the doctrine of providence is much bigger than God giving us some good gifts. As our Confession puts it, God providentially leads and governs [all things] according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. This means that God is not just causing the good things that happen, but also that He's leading and governing even the sinful things that occur! Except for his beautiful confession in chapter two and his eight word sermon in chapter three, Jonah's life is nothing but a parade of sins. God certainly didn't want Jonah to sin, nor did God cause Jonah to sin, but at the same time God sovereignly used Jonah's sin to provide salvation for the Ninevites as well as an enduring (and even humorous) lesson for His covenant people. In our messed up world and society, it may seem like the effects of sin are overwhelming the good gifts of God's providence. But keep the faith! Let Jonah's strange story remind you that God doesn't want or cause the sins that underlie our problems, but He does sovereignly and providentially (and often humorously) control all things. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father: who is "a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity." ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that you will see God's providential control over all things and align yourself with it; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: James 4

If you want the patience of Job, you need the theology of Job! Job 12 (NIV) CONTEXT: Job has lost his family and his health. He here responds to his friends who blame Job's troubles on some sin he must have committed. Here Job pushes back on them. 12 Then Job replied: 2 “Doubtless you are the only people who matter, and wisdom will die with you! 3 But I have a mind as well as you; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know all these things? 4 “I have become a laughingstock to my friends, though I called on God and he answered— a mere laughingstock, though righteous and blameless! 5 Those who are at ease have contempt for misfortune as the fate of those whose feet are slipping. 6 The tents of marauders are undisturbed, and those who provoke God are secure— those God has in his hand. 7 “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; 8 or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. 9 Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? 10 In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. 11 Does not the ear test words as the tongue tastes food? 12 Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding? 13 “To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his. 14 What he tears down cannot be rebuilt; those he imprisons cannot be released. 15 If he holds back the waters, there is drought; if he lets them loose, they devastate the land. 16 To him belong strength and insight; both deceived and deceiver are his. 17 He leads rulers away stripped and makes fools of judges. 18 He takes off the shackles put on by kings and ties a loincloth around their waist. 19 He leads priests away stripped and overthrows officials long established. 20 He silences the lips of trusted advisers and takes away the discernment of elders. 21 He pours contempt on nobles and disarms the mighty. 22 He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings utter darkness into the light. 23 He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them. 24 He deprives the leaders of the earth of their reason; he makes them wander in a trackless waste. 25 They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 13: The Doctrine of God’s Providence We believe that this good God, after he created all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will, in such a way that nothing happens in this world without his orderly arrangement. Yet God is not the author of, nor can he be charged with, the sin that occurs. For his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that he arranges and does his work very well and justly even when the devils and wicked men act unjustly. JONAH We do not wish to inquire with undue curiosity into what he does that surpasses human understanding and is beyond our ability to comprehend. But in all humility and reverence we adore the just judgments of God, which are hidden from us, being content to be Christ’s disciples, so as to learn only what he shows us in his Word, without going beyond those limits. This doctrine gives us unspeakable comfort since it teaches us that nothing can happen to us by chance but only by the arrangement of our gracious heavenly Father. He watches over us with fatherly care, keeping all creatures under his control, so that not one of the hairs on our heads (for they are all numbered) nor even a little bird can fall to the ground without the will of our Father. In this thought we rest, knowing that he holds in check the devils and all our enemies, who cannot hurt us without his permission and will. For that reason we reject the damnable error of the Epicureans, who say that God involves himself in nothing and leaves everything to chance. Summary Everybody knows about the patience of Job, right? After all, Job endured so much suffering, but despite so many people who wanted him to, he would not curse God for the troubles he experienced. Although Job's patient endurance is certainly an huge aspect of this book, one of its greatest gifts are the contributions it makes to what we call theology proper; that is, the study of God Himself. It's in the book of Job that we get get some of the biggest insights into who and what God is. In responding to his friends, Job emphasizes the ongoing providence of God, who is capable of both creating and destroying, and who governs the affairs of both humans and animals alike. He points out that even the earth and its inhabitants are under God’s control, suggesting that his friends' simplistic explanations for suffering do not capture the complexity and depth of God’s purposes. Through this discourse, Job asserts that wisdom and power belong to God, who ultimately is beyond human comprehension and control. Dig Deeper It's probably not likely that you've suffered in life to the same extent Job did, but you've certainly been through dark valleys in life; perhaps you're in one even now! In difficult times, you're going to be inundated with advice from well meaning friends. Some of them might even 'encourage' you to have the patience of Job as you endure suffering. But you can't imitate Job's patience without Job's theology! So often patience and peace is equated with accepting some sort of fatalistic attitude that we're just pawns going through the motions in a predetermined course. Job is not happy with God at all at this point. Despite calling on God, he's been made a 'laughingstock,' while 'those who provoke God are secure.' But ultimately, Job can be patient because he knows that God is not arbitrary or unfair in how He works things out. "Ask the animals," Job says, "they will teach you... To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are His (v7, 13). You might not be able to see the end of your dark valley, just like Job couldn't see his as he spoke these words. But if you know your theology - meaning, if you know God the way Job knew God, you'll be able to patiently endure all that comes your way. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father: in his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind (v10). ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that you will come to know God more and more so that you can have the patience of Job. ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: James 3

Not all angels have wings, and not all angels are good. Jude 6 (NIV) And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling — these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 12: The Creation of All Things We believe that the Father created heaven and earth and all other creatures from nothing, when it seemed good to him, by his Word— that is to say, by his Son. He has given all creatures their being, form, and appearance, and their various functions for serving their Creator. Even now he also sustains and governs them all, according to his eternal providence, and by his infinite power, that they may serve man, in order that man may serve God. He has also created the angels good, that they might be his messengers and serve his elect. Some of them have fallen from the excellence in which God created them into eternal perdition; and the others have persisted and remained in their original state, by the grace of God. The devils and evil spirits are so corrupt that they are enemies of God and of everything good. They lie in wait for the church and every member of it like thieves, with all their power, to destroy and spoil everything by their deceptions. So then, by their own wickedness they are condemned to everlasting damnation, daily awaiting their torments. For that reason we detest the error of the Sadducees, who deny that there are spirits and angels, and also the error of the Manicheans, who say that the devils originated by themselves, being evil by nature, without having been corrupted. Summary Yesterday we began our discussion of spiritual beings. We explored and talked about angels and what Scripture has to say about them, but what about fallen angels? As we take a look at the short letter of Jude, Jude takes up a discussion about judgment for those who are false teachers. Not long after he begins, he writes: “And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day…” (v. 6 ESV). This connects us with the section of the Belgic Confession we are taking a look at today. After its brief discussion of angels, we read this concerning fallen angels: “Some of them have fallen from the excellence in which God created them into eternal perdition…” We see that they are “so corrupt that they are enemies of God and of everything good,” and “they lie in wait for the church and every member of it like thieves, with all their power to destroy and spoil everything by their deceptions.” Yet, in all of this, there is a consolation for believers, in that we are told that there is an eternal punishment that awaits those fallen angels. We see this clearly even in some of the interactions our Lord and Savior has with fallen angels throughout His ministry. Dig Deeper Even though we are told about these fallen angels being “enemies of God and of everything good,” and even seeking to “lie in wait for the church and every member of it like thieves…,” we have a great encouragement, brothers and sisters.  Through it all, our God remains sovereignly in control over all things as He watches over us. Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, He has also defeated these enemies.  Through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, He certainly defeated sin and death, but we also see that He has defeated the devil, whose head He crushed on the cross! As John writes in 1 John 4:4, when he talks about testing spirits: “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world."  Our God is sovereignly in control over all things, and He is greater than he who is in the world and has overcome the enemy on the cross. Martin Luther summarizes Christ's victory over these fallen angels in his well-known hymn, A Mighty Fortress is Our God: And tho this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us: The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him; His rage we can endure, For lo, his doom is sure; One little word shall fell him.” AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Father, who created all things in heaven and on earth; ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Thank God for subduing these fallen angels, and pray that you'll follow Christ and not the temptations coming from fallen angels; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: James 2

You might not be thinking about Christmas this week, but the angels sure are! Luke 2:8–14 (NIV) 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Listen to passage & devotional: Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 12: The Creation of All Things We believe that the Father created heaven and earth and all other creatures from nothing, when it seemed good to him, by his Word— that is to say, by his Son. He has given all creatures their being, form, and appearance, and their various functions for serving their Creator. Even now he also sustains and governs them all, according to his eternal providence, and by his infinite power, that they may serve man, in order that man may serve God. He has also created the angels good, that they might be his messengers and serve his elect. Some of them have fallen from the excellence in which God created them into eternal perdition; and the others have persisted and remained in their original state, by the grace of God. The devils and evil spirits are so corrupt that they are enemies of God and of everything good. They lie in wait for the church and every member of it like thieves, with all their power, to destroy and spoil everything by their deceptions. So then, by their own wickedness they are condemned to everlasting damnation, daily awaiting their torments. For that reason we detest the error of the Sadducees, who deny that there are spirits and angels, and also the error of the Manicheans, who say that the devils originated by themselves, being evil by nature, without having been corrupted. Summary In our Western world, the belief that spiritual forces are real has faded as something from a bygone age. However, as we take a look at Scripture, we see clearly there are spiritual beings - both angels and fallen angels. On the other hand, there are so many misconceptions surrounding them that run in from popular culture, so it’s important to turn to Scripture to see what it has to say concerning both angels and fallen angels. We'll look at angels today, and fallen angels tomorrow. The Bible speaks of all sorts of things that angels do: praise God (Ps. 103:20), serve the inheritors of salvation (Heb. 1:14), watch over those who believe in Jesus (Ps. 91:11), etc. But the primary task of angels are as messengers of the Lord. We see this many times throughout Scripture, but especially we see it at the birth of our Lord, in Luke 2:8-14 when an angel appears to shepherds out in the field. The angel “bring[s]...good news of great joy that will be for all the people,” declaring the birth of “a Savior, who is Christ the Lord,” after which more angels appear and praise the Lord (ESV). Our Confession particularly highlights that “God has also created the angels good, that they might be messengers of God and serve the elect.” Dig Deeper People are fascinated by angels and their work. We are curious about these spiritual beings that we find throughout the pages of Scripture. One of the things that we find in God’s Word concerning angels, is that angels long to look into things concerning our salvation, as we read in 1 Peter 1:10-12 (esp. V. 12). John Calvin, in commenting on this passage, writes: “It is indeed the highest praise to the gospel, that it contains treasures of wisdom, as yet concealed and hidden from angels,” and then a bit later: “...Peter only means that such things are promised to us as angels desire to see fulfilled. Paul says that by the calling of the Gentiles the wonderful wisdom of God was made known to angels: for it was a spectacle to them, when Christ gathered into one body the lost world, alienated for so many ages from the hope of life.” Calvin goes on to mention how much they look forward to the completion of Christ’s Kingdom. It is truly amazing, brothers and sisters, that the grace and the salvation that we have received through Christ, which we especially celebrate this week, that angels long to look into those things. It is good for us to learn what Scripture has to say about angels; all the while, may we stand in awe of the amazing grace that we have received through Christ, the amazing gift of salvation, of reconciliation with God. AAA Prayer (About) ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: "Glory to God in the highest heaven!" ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that you will have the same longing to know the gospel message that the angels in heaven have; ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED: Read the New Testament in a year! Today: James 1