God has revealed Himself to the human race through His providential goodness in the world. His existence is made known through His provisions. This is also known as “common grace.” When people wanted to worship Paul and Barnabas after miracles they performed, Paul told them the following:
Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. In the past, he let all nations go their own way, Yet he has not left himself without testimony: he has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy (Acts 14:15-17).
The rain from heaven, the different seasons, all testify to God providing for His creation. This providence is something that all of humanity benefits from.
Jesus’ Testimony To God’s Providence
Jesus said of God the Father:
He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45).
The good and bad, the righteous and the unrighteous, all receive these benefits.
God Always Knows What Happens
As the providing God He knows everything that occurs. Jesus said.
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows (Matthew 10:29-30).
Providence Is Still Not Adequate
Though providence gives testimony to a loving and a caring God, it does not tell us who this God is. Humanity needs more to understand the expectations of the One who has provided for their needs. Thus a further revelation from God is necessary.
Summary
God’s providence is seen in giving provisions to everyone in this world. This is also known as common grace. They testify that there is a God who exists and who cares about His creation. However providence, by itself, is not sufficient to people to know the identity of the true and living God. It merely tells them that He exists and that He cares for everyone. But God has provided a fuller revelation: His Word—the Bible.