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I. ITS MYSTERY. Infinite plans require an infinite mind to comprehend them. Before you can justifiably impugn the ways of God, you must be able to understand the majestic march of all events from "everlasting to everlasting." You must see the past, the present, and the future in a moment. But canst thou comprehend all that has been, and is, and is to come? No. How, then, canst thou explore the mysteries of the providence of God?

II. ITS PERFECTION.

1. In nature. From the beginning the earth has proclaimed the glory of God. The four seasons are four witnesses for Him. Seedtime and harvest, summer and winter, cold and heat, come in grand procession, each the messenger of plenty; all of them the gifts of God.

2. In the rise and fall of nations. There is no natural decay in nations as there is in a tree. "Righteousness exalteth a nation," and so long as nations act on righteous principles they prosper; but God hath ordained that warlike, oppressive, cruel, profligate nations shall perish. Let history bear witness to this fact.

3. In the rewards of the good. Read the histories of Abraham, Joseph, Daniel, and Job — study them well, and you will learn how perfect is the providence of God. You will see how He led them, comforted them, vindicated them, raised them to honour, did them good, and not evil, even when He permitted their afflictions, and how He made their peace to flow like a river, and their righteousness to shine like the morning stars.

III. ITS GLORY.

1. In the fertility and beauty of the earth. "The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof." And how great is that fulness! Think of the mountains; the pastures covered with flocks; the valleys filled with corn; the cattle on a thousand hills! Oh! see in all these the goodness of God. Behold the glory of God's providence in His care of all living creatures. He made them by His power; He protects them in His love.

2. In the redemption of men. The Cross of Christ is the most eloquent exponent — the truest interpreter — of the providence of God. Speak ye of God, of His justice and mercy? Speak ye of man, of his guilt, death, and future? Turn to the Cross. There in your Saviour you have a vindication of God's law and a manifestation of God's love.

3. In the judgment to come. He will then appear as He is — almighty, merciful, and holy — and He will show forth before men and angels and fallen spirits the glory of His name. None will then reply against Him.

(G. W. M'Cree.)

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KJV: Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.

WEB: Clouds and darkness are around him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.