“The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though he had need of anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation that they would seek God, if perhaps they might feel their way toward Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist….Therefore, having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because he has fixed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead.” (Acts 17:24-31).
Paul attempted to teach the great philosophers of his day about God by showing them how God had acted in the life of mankind. Perhaps this would serve as a good definition of providence–“the actions God takes in the lives of mankind.” God acts as the Creator, Provider, and Gracious Judge of all His creation. From Paul’s apologetic sermon on Mars Hill, we can learn much about the providence of our great God.

God is the one who created mankind–Acts 17:24.
Genesis 1:27
Psalm 8:3-8

God is the one who provides for mankind–Acts 17:25.
Psalm 23
Genesis 22:8

God is the one who longs for mankind–Acts 17:26-29
God’s desire to exalt mankind is demonstrated by His Son the Savior–Colossians 1:18-19.
God’s desire to be with mankind is proved by the presence of the Scriptures–John 20:30-31

God is the gracious Judge of all mankind–Acts 17:30-31.
He is the Judge,
Revelation 22:12
Matthew 25:45-56
He is Gracious
Psalm 18:46
Psalm 20:6-8

Psalm 13:5-6 says, “I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to The Lord for he hath dealt bountifully with me.” How great is the providence of God! His great love, power, and mercy inspire us to entrust our souls and lives to Him.