Do you see the hand of God in your life? The word happenstance refers to an event that might have been arranged although it was really accidental. It is closely related to the idea of something being a coincidence. I don’t believe anything is a coincidence since the Bible says God has purposed everything according to His will. He is in control of all things, knows all things and nothing is beyond God’s scrutiny and dominion. Read Proverbs 21:1, “The king’s heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes”. God’s providence is quite the opposite of accidental. It is an event or circumstance that may look like coincidence but has been arranged all along by Him. It is God’s care exercised for His creation.
I am studying the book of Ruth at this moment. Ruth 2:3, turned my eyes toward thinking upon God’s divine direction in my life. As I look back I am truly amazed and thankful at the way each segment has been placed just so. Even the negative – or what I thought was negative – has been purposely used by God to show me Himself and to grow me in trust and understanding. My heart is full of praise and adoration for the One true God, our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Ruth 2:3 reads, “So she departed and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech”.
God’s hand of care is written all over this! Consider how blessed we are to have this encouraging picture of God working in the lives of those whom He has called. Even in dire circumstances which are unforeseen, God has an incredible plan.
Our text says Ruth happened upon a field belonging to Boaz. This word ‘happened’ means something met with an accident or fortune, something befallen or by chance. Was this an accident or providence? Family Bible Notes makes this comment, “With a fatherly kindness God watches over and directs the concerns of the poorest, most obscure, and defenseless of his people, and directs them in such a manner as to promote their highest good”. Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “It was indeed a chance in reference to second causes, but ordered and designed by God’s providence”. God uses the circumstances in our lives to bring Himself glory.
If you are God’s child, you will be able to see His hand directing your life in all areas. Look back at seemingly unimportant events or decisions and praise God for how He has turned them for your blessing. Be excited for His guidance and direction as He leads you on a path that will bring growth in your life and glory to Himself.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
