Murmur Not at the Ways of Providence

It's amazing at times what you can find when you're looking for something else on your computer screen! I found this gem of a short letter/devotional on my Home Screen and thought it was worth sharing to my listeners. It details a letter written by the third President, Thomas Jefferson, at the request of one of his friends who named his son after Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson wrote a kind and informative short letter that the boy would receive when he reached his age of understanding. Jefferson noted that he took a particular interest in the lad since he bore his name. There is much to be said in Jefferson's words as they offer insight to much biblical admonition with a focus on God's providence. On this episode of 2Days Denarius, we will read and examine this letter, highlighting Jefferson's encouraging words that often reflected the ways and commandments of God. We will also place a magnifying glass on one of the great stories of God's sovereignty and providence from the life of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 to better understand God's providence in His world and our lives. A transcript of the letter itself is provided below.Monticello, February 21, 1825This letter will, to you, be as one from the dead. The writer will be in the grave before you can weigh its counsels. Your affectionate and excellent father has requested that I would address to you something which might possibly have a favorable influence on the course of life you have to run, and I too, as a namesake, feel an interest in that course. Few words will be necessary, with good dispositions on your part. Adore God. Reverence and cherish your parents. Love your neighbor as yourself, and your country more than yourself. Be just. Be true. Murmur not at the ways of Providence. So shall the life into which you have entered, be the portal to one of eternal and ineffable bliss. And if to the dead it is permitted to care for the things of this world, every action of your life will be under my regard. Farewell.Song "Holy Is the Lord" is used by permission of songwriter/performer, Pastor Steve Hereford of the Changed By Grace Church in Jacksonville FL. His inspiring Scripture songs may be found on Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, and many other web stream hosts. Search "Steve Hereford.Your comments are welcome! Send a text my way!2Days Denarius is a Bible believing teaching ministry devoted to the inerrancy, infallibility, and authority of Scripture as our only rule of faith and practice. It also holds to the doctrinal tenets of the London Baptist confession of 1689. This ministry may be reached at [email protected] Thomas (MDiv, RBC) is an ordained minister with 25-plus years of ministry experience, 22 serving as an active duty chaplain in our armed services.Material used in this podcast are provided under the educational and commentary provisions of Section 207 of the Fair Use Act of 1976.