Life rarely unfolds the way we plan. We face trials, uncertainty, and opposition. But in the quiet details of our daily lives—especially in the moments we don’t understand—God is at work. That’s what we’re reminded of in Acts 23:12–35, where we see how God’s providence unfolds through surprising means, unexpected people, and even unbelievers.
Today, we want to explore what it truly means to accept God’s providence, and why recognizing His invisible hand in our circumstances leads to peace, purpose, and courage.
When You Can’t See God—He’s Still Working
In this portion of Acts, we follow the apostle Paul, imprisoned and facing a deadly conspiracy. Over 40 men had taken a vow to kill him. But interestingly, God’s name isn’t mentioned in these verses—just like the book of Esther. Still, His fingerprints are everywhere.
This passage reminds us that God is sovereign, even when He appears silent. Like Esther, Paul’s story shows us that God moves behind the scenes to accomplish His purpose. And He often does so through the most unexpected ways.
God Uses Ordinary People for Extraordinary Protection
Who did God use to save Paul from this violent plot? Not an angel, not a well-known disciple—but a young man, Paul’s nephew. We don’t know his name or his age. But he was at the right place at the right time. He overheard the plot and courageously took action.
This young man could have stayed silent. Instead, he stepped up—and God used him to protect Paul and continue spreading the gospel.
Here’s the lesson: You don’t have to be powerful or prominent for God to use you. You just have to be willing. Like Esther, you may be placed where you are “for such a time as this.” Whether you’re a student, parent, or coworker, God can use you to make a difference—if you’re willing to speak up and act in faith.
Don’t Be Passive in Your Faith
One of the dangers we face today is spiritual passivity. Too many believers are stepping back when God is calling us to step up. Whether it’s parenting, leading in your marriage, or sharing your faith, we must resist the urge to sit on the sidelines.
Parents, don’t let culture raise your children. Husbands, don’t retreat from your responsibility to lead spiritually in the home. Christians, don’t wait for someone else to speak up for what is right. God calls all of us to be salt and light in this world. Be involved. Be bold. For such a time as this—you are here for a reason.
God Can Even Use Unbelievers to Fulfill His Plan
Another striking part of this passage is how God used Lysias, the Roman commander. This man didn’t follow Christ. Yet God stirred his heart to act quickly, protect Paul, and send him safely to Caesarea under heavy guard. Lysias wrote a letter affirming Paul’s innocence and used Roman resources to advance God’s mission.
God’s sovereignty is so complete that He can use anyone—believer or not—to bring about His will. Proverbs reminds us that “the king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord.” And in this case, that truth was literally played out.
So if you’re wondering whether God can handle your situation, look no further than this passage. If He can use an unnamed boy and a pagan soldier, He can use your job, your challenges, your relationships—even your setbacks—for His glory.
God Uses Detours to Deliver Us
It might have looked like Paul was being shuffled from prison to prison. But what was really happening? God was transporting His messenger safely toward Rome, just as Jesus had promised in Acts 23:11. The soldiers thought they were guarding a dangerous man—but God was paving the way for the gospel to go forth.
In your own life, you might feel stuck. Maybe it seems like doors are closing or plans are falling apart. But if you belong to Christ, every detour has a divine purpose. What looks like a setback may be God’s setup for something greater.
“All things work together for good to them that love God…” (Romans 8:28)
Trusting God’s Sovereignty in All Things
Let’s talk about what it means to accept God’s providence. It means trusting that:
- God is in control even when life feels chaotic.
- God sees the whole picture when you can only see one piece.
- God uses people, places, and moments we wouldn’t expect.
- God’s purpose is still moving forward—even in the silence.
Sometimes, His will includes pain, delay, or even injustice. But as we see in Paul’s story, God finishes what He starts. Philippians 1:6 promises us that “he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.”
We may not understand every twist and turn. But we can trust that God’s providence is leading us somewhere worth going.
Final Encouragement: Be an Encourager, Be Available
God used a young man with no title and a soldier with no faith. Why? Because they were available. That’s all God is asking of us.
Encourage the young people in your life. Don’t run out of church and forget the ministry happening around you. Put your hand on a young person’s shoulder and tell them, “God has His hand on you.”
Be the one who gets involved, not the one who says, “That’s not my problem.” Be the one who trusts God to lead your life, not the one who tries to control every detail. Accept His providence, and watch how He weaves your story into something more beautiful than you could have imagined.
God’s providence is not always obvious, but it’s always present.
Whether you’re in a storm, in a waiting season, or in a moment of great responsibility—trust Him.
He’s working.
He’s guiding.
And He’s not finished with you yet.
“Cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.” —1 Peter 5:7
Ready to take the next step in your faith?
Join us this Sunday at The Open Door Church—where truth is preached, hope is found, and lives are changed.
Come as you are. Leave with purpose.