Eileen's Blog - Part 9: Appendix, People Who Are Loved

Here are just a few biblical themes and passages often associated with the concept of serendipity: 

1.God’s Providence in Unexpected Outcomes 

Genesis 50 v20 Joseph tells his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. “This is a classic example of an apparent misfortune leading to a greater blessing. 

Joseph took every chance to”overflow”, that is, to bless others- even in prison -and lived in expectation of favour finding him. He developed that lifestyle despite being betrayed into slavery by family who should have been caring for him, betrayed by those he tried to serve as a slave and those he helped in prison. His actions and his expectations did not depend on the disappointments others bring. 

Ruth 2:3  Ruth “happened” to glean in the field of Boaz, which set in motion her redemption and lineage leading to King David and Jesus. 

Widowed Ruth decided to stick with/support her also widowed mother-in-law and remain in a foreign country where she would be unlikely to find a welcome. However, her mother-in-law Naomi looked around her to seek provision, as they were very needy. She wisely saw an opportunity in a distant relative, and began to take advantage of it through Ruth– and they were rescued from poverty. 

2.“Accidental” Encounters Turned Divine       Appointments 

John 4:6–42 — Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at the well. What looks like chance is a purposeful encounter. Jesus ignored her defensive attitude. She became a fearless evangelist in the local town! 

3. Guidance Through “Coincidence”, suffering and misfortune 

Acts 8:26–40 — Philip is led to meet the Ethiopian eunuch, who just “happened” to be reading Isaiah, ready for the Gospel. 

Phillip ignores his cultural difference and religious status and starts asking relevant questions 

Acts — Paul’s missionary journeys show how he works in partnership with the Holy Spirit  He sometimes ignores well wishers’ advice (Acts 20), appeals to a higher political authority seemingly unecessarily  and is sent under arrest to Rome (Acts 25) and suffers many misfortunes described in 2 Corinthians 4,6,11 and 12. He works with the Holy Spirit, who supports him in every initiative he takes, and well as providing clear guidance when needed (Acts 16 v9-10)