Recommended: Flavel's "Mystery of Providence"

The Mystery of Providence by John Flavel. Banner of Truth, 1995 (first published in 1678).

This book is a classic work on a treasured biblical teaching all but lost in our "modern" day and should be read by every Christian who desires to enlarge his or her view of and appreciation for the majesty and grace of God. English Puritan John Flavel takes Providence-the ordering of life's details by our sovereign and gracious God-and illustrates the providential workings in our everyday lives, shows our duty to know and reflect on those providences (especially the difficult ones) and works through their practical implications. Written well over 300 years ago, it has passed the test of time. As Michael Bolan writes in the introduction, "[Flavel's work] is calculated to abase man and exalt God, and yet to kindle faith and adoration in the heart of every child of God." And it does just that, growing a healthy humility while increasing confidence, contentment and trust in God's provision through all things-good and bad, easy and difficult, ordinary and extraordinary. Reading The Mystery of Providence will profoundly change the way you see the world and your place in it