Matthew 26:36-44
Romans 12:1-2
John 5:30
We often hear that God grants us a "free will" but what exactly does this mean? Does it mean that we are allowed to do as we please but ultimately remain in His plan? Does that even qualify as our own will? The Bible mentions that God has more than one plan, or will, for our lives; the Divine Will and the Permissive Will. The Permissive Will is what God allows when we push past what He has chosen us to do. Even when we push past we are still under the grace of God. However there are consequences ( i.e. the belly of the whale, going blind like Sampson, being excommunicated like Adam & Eve, etc.). Although His grace covers us in our Permissive Will, our impact and effectiveness in His kingdom is diminished because of the consequences. We end up creating our own Homemade trials. It goes without saying that the abundance of consequences and lack of benefits makes this path less than desirable. In the Divine Will, we fulfill our kingdom purpose and are able to impact so much more and so many more. Not to mention the perks ( i.e. blessings from God). If you are at a crossroad and don’t know what to do just stand still –do not be impatient. If you’re in the Permissive Will right now, like most of us, God’s grace is sufficient. Just submit and allow God to get back on track ( like he did for Jonah). Yes God gives us options, but when you look at the evidence, isn't the right choice pretty obvious?
Be Well,
Pastors Hines
