It was sometime around 6 P.M. on a July evening in Washington, D.C. I worked as a research assistant for an education nonprofit. My long day of supporting meetings and publications was at an end. I was ready to reach my home. I bolted for the train station, hoping for an uneventful ride. Little did I know that the God who governs all things was guiding me to just the right seat on that train.

Months before, the youth minister at my church, along with his wife, had introduced me to a young man. They spoke highly of his knowledge of Scripture and his love for Christ. The four of us went on a double date and a slow friendship began between me and this man. The steady progress halted to a full stop after some heightened tensions in my family. Conversations ended, and I assumed that would be all between us. My assumption proved wrong as I stepped into the crowded train that evening. I had walked into the very car, to the very row, and the very seat occupied by that same young man. He looked up, offered his seat to me, and we haven’t stopped talking since then.

My husband and I have often marveled at God’s providence in our “chance” train encounter. That moment ultimately led to our marriage, our four children, our partnership in local church ministry, and so much more. “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). Our sovereign God is writing a big story, and He’s pleased to weave our individual tales into a narrative that displays His wisdom and glory. God orders our steps; and there’s a quiet verse in the book of Ruth that screams of His providence!

Continue at The Daily Grace Co.