providence

n. [ L. providentia: cf. F. providence. See Provident, and cf. Prudence. ] 1. The act of providing or preparing for future use or application; a making ready; preparation. [ 1913 Webster ]

Providence for war is the best prevention of it. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Foresight; care; especially, the foresight and care which God manifests for his creatures; hence, God himself, regarded as exercising a constant wise prescience. [ 1913 Webster ]

The world was all before them, where to choose
Their place of rest, and Providence their guide. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Theol.) A manifestation of the care and superintendence which God exercises over his creatures; an event ordained by divine direction. [ 1913 Webster ]

He that hath a numerous family, and many to provide for, needs a greater providence of God. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. Prudence in the management of one's concerns; economy; frugality. [ 1913 Webster ]

It is a high point of providence in a prince to cast an eye rather upon actions than persons. Quarles. [ 1913 Webster ]