Free Willie

No, I'm not talking about the whale, or anything else that may have come to mind. This is actually about Free Will and what I think the Lord showed me about it. I just thought this title might be a little more intriguing and, perhaps, amusing.

One morning I was pondering our country's troubled economy; our personal job situations; the frustrations our birds were manifesting as they go through their Spring mating rituals; and why I can't seem to hear God telling me what to do.

Suddenly the thought, "Free Will" came to mind (i.e. If He tells me what to do, it's not free will is it?) God will not MAKE us do the right thing. He will not force His will upon us. He has given us freedom to choose. But, He did promise to direct our paths.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. (Prov 3:5-6)

If we choose a wrong direction, and continually follow our own way (whether by mistake or deliberate rebellion), we will suffer the consequences (i.e. reap what we sow.)

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. (Gal 6:7-9)

However, when we realize we've chosen the wrong path and if we repent and again acknowledge the Lord in all our ways, we still reap the consequences of our choices, but He will be with us in them and will direct our paths and will work them together for our good.

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)