Every Event is Under Divine Control, by James Smith 1802—1862

“My times are in Your hand!” Psalm 31:15

Every event is under Divine control. Nothing is left to ‘chance’.

The hand of God is in all that occurs: directing, overruling, and sanctifying everything to our good and His glory.

He appointed all that concerns us, and appointed all in infinite wisdom and love. Therefore we should not judge rashly–or conclude hastily. We know not what may occur today–but we know that the purpose of God cannot be frustrated, nor can His purpose fail. He works all things after the counsel of His own will.

He says, “My purpose shall stand–and I will do all My pleasure.” But this is our comfort, that He takes pleasure in His people, and in the prosperity of His redeemed ones.

Let us consider, then, that everything that happens to us . . .

• passes under our Father’s eye;
• is overruled by our Savior’s power; and
• directed by the Holy Spirit to do us good.

It shall not be as our enemies wish, or as our hearts fear; but as our God and Father pleases, and has ordained.

Therefore do not be anxious, troubled, or cast down! The Lord God omnipotent reigns–and He is your Father and your God! He shall preserve you from all evil–He shall preserve your soul.

“We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Spurgeon: When you go through a trial, the sovereignty of God is the soft pillow upon which you lay your head. There is no attribute of God more comforting to His children than the doctrine of Divine Sovereignty. Under the most adverse circumstances, in the most severe troubles, they believe that Sovereignty has ordained their afflictions, that Sovereignty overrules them, and that Sovereignty will sanctify them all.

James Smith (1802-1862): Before Charles Spurgeon began to preach (1854), James Smith had been proclaiming the good news of salvation in Christ and the blessings of the Christian life at the New Park Street Chapel in London (1841-1850). He also ministered  in Cheltenham. Long gone, Smith’s words of biblical truths live on to inspire and encourage the body of Christ. He is well-remembered for his popular devotional, The Believer’s Daily Remembrancer, subtitled Pastor’s Morning and Evening Visit.