Trusting Providence

I think that sometimes we get so wrapped up in planning our lives that we forget this verse in the second chapter of Philippians:

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Important to note that the verse says to work "out" your salvation and not work "for" it. I think that much of the scriptures speak to this idea of God working with us and providentially directing our lives. Consider these two verses from Proverbs:

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. (16:9)

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. (19:21)

This verse in the eighth chapter of Romans tells us a bit about His purpose in doing so:

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

Always good to remember that His working in our lives has a purpose.. good to know that His will and His leadership all are designed to conform us into the likeness of Jesus.

So when life doesn't seem to make sense or when times are hard it is good to know that we can trust God to providentially mold us and help us to manifest His divine character.. even in extremely negatives situations. He is the proverbial potter and we are the clay. Please join me in asking Him to mold us for His purposes and His glory.