In his book A Sweet and Bitter Providence, John Piper offers these thoughts about God’s provision and guidance: “Life is not a straight line leading from one blessing to the next and then finally to heaven. Life is a winding and troubled road. . . . God is not just showing up after the trouble and cleaning it up. He is plotting the course and managing the troubles with far reaching purposes for our good and for the glory of Jesus Christ.”

The Jews journeying to Jerusalem for the annual feasts (Deut. 16:16) had the confidence of knowing that the Lord was plotting their course and managing the winding and troubled roads for them. They expressed this confidence in Psalm 121. The question, “From whence comes my help?” did not express doubt but affirmation in the Lord who rules (vv.1-2). Unlike a guard who sometimes sleeps, or the god Baal who needed to be alerted (1 Kings 18:27), the Lord is fully alert and secures the journey of His people with loving care (vv.3-4). The Lord, who rescued Israel, continues to help, preserve and walk with His people.

Life is a winding road with unknown troubles, but we can be certain of God’s control, security and care.

Troubles are unknown; God’s loving care is certain.

Author

Marvin Williams

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