Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

Mark A. Copeland
1. Possess the perspective of Mordecai - cf. Est 4:14
a. He wondered whether Esther had been placed in her position by God
b. Yet he did not presume such was actually the case
2. Remain open to the possibility the Lord’s will may be different - cf. Ro 1:10; Ac 18:21
a. We can only be certain in things pertaining to God’s revealed will (the Scriptures)
b. There is an uncertainty pertaining to God’s permissive will (“If...”) - cf. Ja 4:15
3. In everything give thanks - Ph 4:6
a. For the good things that come our way
b. For the ill things too, as they can be used for our spiritual growth
4. Leave the ultimate determination of providence to God
a. We need not “whittle on His end of the stick”
b. We can believe in God’s providence without being able to interpret every circumstance
CONCLUSION
1. The providence of God is a wonderful blessing...
a. We know that He is working toward our ultimate good, the salvation of our souls
b. His care will provide what we need, and often far beyond that
2. To ensure God’s providential working for our ultimate good...
a. Seek first the kingdom of God
b. Study and apply what is God’s revealed will
c. Make plans that are submissive to the Lord’s permissive will (“If the Lord wills...”)
d. In everything give God thanks
“For He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil,
And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him
seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears
are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” - 1 Pe
3:10-12
Topical Sermons 292