Written by Dr. Potter’s wife Jennifer.
Providence is not a word on many people’s tongues. Destiny, fate, chance…. We are more likely to employ such words. And while the word providence is not a biblical word in the strictest sense, it is definitely a biblical concept. Providence is the superintending work and care of God over all of creation. Really, it is probably one of the most comforting truths that the Christian has. It does not however answer all of the Christian’s particular questions about the workings of His providence. We have to learn to be comfortable in that tension. I would suggest that God teaches us to be comfortable in that tension.
William Cowper was a Christian saint and poet in ages past who had learned to live in the tension. I am not an expert on his story, but I do know that he had a lifelong struggle with debilitating depression. Out of these struggles, he shared the depth of wisdom wrought by his adversity and his providential God.
Please consider the insight of this saint who has gone before….
Light Shining Out of Darkness
By William Cowper
God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform;
He plants his footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill,
He treasures up his bright designs,
And works his sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy, and shall break
In blessings on your head.
Judge not the LORD by feeble sense,
But trust him for his grace;
Behind a frowning providence,
He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding ev’ry hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flow’r.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
And he will make it plain.
Sanctuary Functional Medicine, under the direction of Dr Eric Potter, IFMCP MD, provides functional medicine services to Nashville, Middle Tennessee and beyond. We frequently treat patients from Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Ohio, Indiana, and more... offering the hope of healthier more abundant lives to those with chronic illness.
