As we learn about the ways God will allow the pressures of our lives increase, so that we will realize we are living in a way that is not best for us, Mr Wilkinson takes the time to give us some cautions. Here is my interpretation:
First, God is NOT unjust. He would never hurt an innocent person to capture your attention. This was an important truth to me as my Baby Girl was diagnosed with brain cancer, and some made it sound like God had allowed that so that I would surrender and become His. Imagine the guilt I suffered for so long! But that is just not consistent with a God of Justice. The author questions, “Would you send your son to his room because your daughter broke the rules?” (p 49) While our sin can certainly affect others, the Bible clearly says, we will each suffer for our own sins. (see Eze 18)
Second, God is NOT cruel. He always, and only, acts out of Love, seeking what is best for us. He is never impatient with us, but treats us with kindness as we become aware of our shortcomings and choose to work with Him to be rid of them. God desires for all people to know Him, yet sadly, many will choose not to. (see 1Ti 2:4) In this way, the unbeliever brings pain unto themselves…and this too grieves the heart of God.
Third, God is NOT unfair. He gives us countless opportunities to respond to His discipline. God also makes the discipline fit the sin. For instance, there is a big difference between the punishment that we would give a child who doesn’t do their chores, as opposed to one who steals from you, right? While sin is sin in the respect that Jesus had to pay the penalty for all sin, the degrees of sin obviously vary and God uses appropriate means when catching our attention, always hoping we will choose to repent.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
<>< Peace, Diane
