Is God in Everything?

Today's entry was written by Karen Spurling. 

In this chapter, Hannah Whitall’s claim is simple but yet profound. Her answer to the question “Is God in everything?” is 

“Yes. To the children of God, everything comes directly from their Father’s hand, no matter who or what may have been the apparent agents. There are no second causes for them.” 

If we as believers desire to have a happy life, marked by peace and contentment, then we must recognize that God is present in every situation in our lives and nothing happens to us outside of His will. Whiteall cited an abundance of Scripture to demonstrate that creator God is in control of every sparrow, every king, every situation and certainly the lives of His children.

She also spent time addressing the mindset of “second causes” where trials and difficulties enter our lives because of other people. Whitall’s take on this matter is that even though second causes originates from man, even the sin of man, they are still under God’s control and 

“not one of them can touch us except with His knowledge and His permission.” 

Joseph’s life, as pointed out by Whitall was a perfect illustration of this truth. God used the evil actions of his brothers ultimately for Joseph’s good. This truth should bring us comfort to know that our lives are always in God’s hands. He can use all things for our good, even when those things may have originated from an evil source. So great is God’s power and His love and care for us.

Adopting the mindset and heartset that my life is totally in God’s hands and He is involved in the minutia of my life have practical implications. It can enable us to “live in the present moment” free from the worries of tomorrow. It helps us to be grateful for the presence of others in our lives, no matter how difficult they are, because we know that God is using those people to make us more like Him. Also when difficulties come into our lives, we can experience joy knowing that God is having His way in our lives and as a good Father He is working things out for our good. Isn’t it good to know when we surrender ourselves to His will we will always be on the winning side because His will is ultimately what will be accomplished. 

Thoughts and Questions for Interaction 

• How can our faith be derailed if we see the circumstances of our life being from man rather than God?

• Why is it important for you to believe “everything comes directly from the Father’s hands?

• Consider a situation you may be experiencing right now, how does it affect you to know that God is actively engaged in your circumstances?