Providence \Prov"i*dence\, 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.

Providence for war is the best prevention of it. --Bacon.

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

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

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

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

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)