Good morning. I suppose it is true that child rearing has changed a bit in the last 60 years or so. There once was a time when parents didn’t feel compelled to ask a child’s opinion, and children didn’t feel that it was allowable to voice opinions that weren’t requested. I am not suggesting that there weren’t conflicts along those lines from time to time, only that the rules of engagement were understood to be different than they are presently. Somehow, we all survived.
In this era of independent thinking, and open rebellion against what was once considered unquestionable authority, I wonder if those mindsets might be causing conflict with our Father God. He makes known to us His will, and it seems only reasonable that we should voice our opinions about His intentions for us. It may seem reasonable, but is that true?
Consider the apostle Paul. He was a preacher and church planter. He was incredibly gifted by God to carry out those tasks in His name. Paul was diligent, and he was successful, the best there has ever been at those critical jobs. And then God seemed to say, “It is time for a change.”
Paul, the traveling preacher and church planter was put in chains, and it was God’s will.
Why would God impose such a change on the life of a willing and humble servant? Well, without those chains Paul wouldn’t have had time to write. Without those chains, Paul wouldn’t have passed along to us, all the Christians who have lived through the following centuries, God’s instructions for His church. Without those chains we would be robbed of incredible information and amazing inspiration. At the time, people had to wonder what was going on, why would God do such a thing to His servant Paul. We look back through the Word of God and the answer is clear. The key was for Paul to accept the will of God.
Consider please the words of King David in Psalm 143: 8-10 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I entrust my life.
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord,
for I hide myself in you.
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground.
“I hide myself in you.” Those are faithful words of acceptance, words that reflect the heart of one who finds joy in the will of God. May we too be accepting of His will.
Vern