The Secret of the Lord Is With Them That Fear Him
God's secrets of providence can be trusted, even when they seem dark and terrible, because faith looks deeper and sees the hidden meaning.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes that God's providence often appears dark and challenging, yet it holds deeper secrets for those who fear Him. He illustrates that just as diamonds are hidden in rough packages, God's blessings may be concealed in difficult circumstances. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's goodness, recognizing that valuable treasures of love and wisdom are often found within seemingly unappealing situations. By looking beyond the surface, we can uncover the hidden meanings of God's dealings with us. Ultimately, faith allows us to appreciate the richness of God's providence, even when it is wrapped in trials.
Text
There are secrets of providence which God's dear children may learn. His dealing with them often seems, to the outward eye, dark and terrible. Faith looks deeper and says, "This is God's secret. You look only on the outside; I can look deeper and see the hidden meaning. "Sometimes diamonds are hidden in rough packages so their value cannot be seen. When the tabernacle was built in the wilderness there was nothing rich in its outside appearance. The costly things were all within, and its outward covering of rough badger skin gave no hint of the valuable things which it contained. God may send you some costly packages. Do not worry if they are concealed in rough wrappings.
You may be sure there are treasures of love and kindness and wisdom hidden within.
Do not be so foolish as to throw away a silver spoon because it is tarnished. If we take what He sends, and trust Him for the goodness in it, even in the dark, we shall learn the meaning of the secrets of His providence.
Sermon Outline
- God's Secrets of Providence
- Don't judge by outward appearance
- Trust God for the goodness in what He sends
- Don't throw away what God gives
- Trust Him for the hidden treasures
Key Quotes
“Faith looks deeper and says, 'This is God's secret. You look only on the outside; I can look deeper and see the hidden meaning.'” — A.B. Simpson
“Don't throw away a silver spoon because it is tarnished.” — A.B. Simpson
“You may be sure there are treasures of love and kindness and wisdom hidden within.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Don't judge God's providence by its outward appearance, but trust that He is working in ways you can't see.
- Trust God for the goodness in what He sends, even when it's difficult.
- Look deeper and see the hidden meaning in God's dealings with you.