So Many Choices!

So how does the doctrine of free-will affect me? It’s really simple and very basic: it holds us accountable. Does God seem distant? Why so? Remember now, as you examine the reasons for your isolation, that God will not break thru into any element of your life without you being a part of that breakthrough…that’s free will. Not only does God await our invitation, but we also must make the right choices to facilitate God’s arrival. For most of us, it is not so much making the right choices as it is not making the wrong choices. It’s been said we serve a jealous God, and it’s true; God longs to be the focus of our existence, but we must knowingly cause that to happen. When we choose a time of fellowship with God over watching a television program, when we choose serving God over serving self, when we choose intimacy with God over idle conversation at the coffee shop, all of these are choices we must intentionally make. These are choices that will not hinder God’s activity in and around us. Hear me clearly: I am not saying television, serving self, or the coffee shop are evil things, but they can be if we mindlessly choose them over God. We cannot force God (and God will not force us), but we can be continuously aware of and open to the Spirit’s presence and direction…it’s our choice.