“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Romans 8:28
When William Cowper wrote “God Moves in a Mysterious Way” (1773), it was a hymn for stormy weather. The early Christians who faced persecution would have taken great comfort in it, knowing firsthand the violent days of a fallen world. They didn’t always understand the Lord’s providence, but they trusted in it. 

The beginning of the 4th century presented Christians with the worst persecution ever seen, but still God was working, still He was on His throne, and still the church was growing. 

Emperor Diocletian divided Rome into four quadrants to prevent civil war. When he stepped down as supreme emperor in AD 305, peace did not prevail. Civil war broke out between the quadrants, each vying for total control. Galerius, leader of the east quadrant, pushed persecution of Christians so much that it is said even pagans in the east grew tired of the excessive bloodshed. 

In AD 311 Galerius was on his deathbed. Realizing he could not end Christianity, he issued an edict of tolerance. Once again, God was moving in a mysterious way.

 



Scripture Focus

Romans 11:33-36

Insight

“God’s sovereignty is a doctrine for rough weather.” (Charles Spurgeon, 1856)

Bible In A Year

  • 2 Kings 20-21
  • Proverbs 21
  • 2 John

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