The Attributes of God – The Wise and Perfect Planner

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains in this sermon the depth of God’s wisdom in arranging all matters of creation and humanity, showing that God does nothing randomly, but everything He does carries purpose and goodness. God is the supreme Planner who prepares everything perfectly before it happens — in nature, in human life, and in the history of salvation.

1. God’s Planning in Creation
God created the universe in a marvelous order, preparing for each creature what it needs before bringing it into being. Man was created after God had prepared air, water, food, and light; animals had their herbs and waters ready. The Pope highlights the natural harmony as a sign of divine wisdom — the polar bear’s fur in cold lands, and the horse’s thin skin in hot ones — showing adaptation as part of God’s intelligent design.

2. God’s Planning in History and Salvation
The story of the Incarnation and Redemption is the greatest proof of divine planning. God did not send Christ suddenly, but prepared humanity through sacrifices and prophets, and then prepared the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist, the Greek language, and Roman roads for the Gospel’s spread. Every detail was arranged perfectly in God’s time.

3. God’s Planning in Individual Lives
God directs His children’s paths even when they do not understand them. The Pope gives many examples:

• Joseph’s slavery led to his rise as ruler of Egypt.

• David’s persecution strengthened his faith before kingship.

• Moses’ upbringing in Pharaoh’s palace trained him for leadership.

• Jonah’s trial in the fish taught him obedience.
  These stories show that hardship can be God’s tool for growth.

4. Divine Planning in the Lives of Saints
Even the saints experience divine arrangements for humility. God allowed David, Peter, Paul, and Augustine to face weaknesses so that their greatness would not make them proud but humble before Him.

5. Spiritual and Practical Lessons

• Do not rely on your own planning; trust that God’s plan is perfect.

• Do not rush to judge circumstances; wait for the Lord, for His timing is always right.

• Humility is the key to accepting God’s plan, for pride resists His will.

• Always say: “Lord, arrange my life as You will, not as I want.”

Conclusion:
God wisely arranges the lives of individuals, nations, the Church, and the entire universe. Everything He does is good, and all things work together for good to those who love Him. True faith is complete surrender to His will, trusting that His plan is always more wondrous than we can imagine.

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