
“Through using circumstances, thoughts or ideas, or the words from a friend, God can guide the human heart to find Him.”
— Rebecca Bracey
The mystery of how God’s divine intervention and human free will work together is a big topic in religious and philosophical debates. At times there appears to be a tension between the two. Some people think that free will and divine destiny are always fighting in our lives, but I believe they work together smoothly, with God leading like a conductor in a symphony.
Proverbs 21:1 gives a clue into how this works:
The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.
This passage reveals to us that even though we can make our own choices, God has a plan and guides how things turn out. God can change the direction we’re going, even when we think we’re choosing our own way. This doesn’t mean our choices don’t matter or that we’re not in control of our lives. It actually shows that God’s help and our own choices work together in a special way. We can choose what we want to do, but it all fits into God’s big plan.
God’s Will and Human Decision
God’s plan and our choices are connected in ways that aren’t always easy to see. Sometimes, God guides us gently, like a loving parent, encouraging us to follow His path (see Proverbs 21:1 talking about God guiding the hearts). God can influence anyone’s decisions, no matter how stubborn they might be. Through using circumstances, thoughts or ideas, or the words from a friend, God can guide the human heart to find Him.
This interaction between divine intervention and human choice underscores a profound theological concept known as concurrence or compatibility. It suggests that while humans operate with free will, making decisions according to their desires, these choices somehow also fulfill the sovereign will of God. Romans 8:28 is often cited in support of this view:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a]have been called according to his purpose.
In essence, the way God’s will and our own decisions work together is more about harmony than conflict. It’s like a divine symphony where our freedom and God’s guiding hand blend perfectly (especially as believers), showing us that our personal stories are chapters in a bigger story written by God. Recognizing this can give believers a sense of comfort, knowing that their choices matter and fit into God’s bigger plan.
The Power of Intercession
Did you know that we have a super power? Prayer is that superpower, the lifeline that connects us to God in a deep and authentic partnership. It’s our call to action, inviting us to become God’s warriors on earth, fighting for His will to unfold just as it does in heaven. Think about it – it’s like Proverbs tells us, “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance comes from the Lord.” We can gear up all we want, but in the end, it’s God’s hand that tips the scales in our favor.
This isn’t just knowledge; it’s a sacred duty. We’re called to be heralds of His kingdom, history-makers, and soul-savers. Through prayer, we join forces with something bigger than ourselves, weaving our faith into the fabric of our lives and the world.
Eternity Weighs in the Balance
We hold a profound responsibility that calls to our very souls—it’s possibly the most significant one we’ll ever face. Because, let’s face it, we’re not just deciding the outcomes of today or tomorrow; we’re partnering with God to impact souls for eternity. Around the world, and around the corner, decisions are made that ripple through time, charting courses to eternal destinations. Amid this eternal story, we stand as pivotal characters, weaving the lives of those we pray for into God’s magnificent, glowing family tapestry.
In the journey of faith, there’s no room for standing on the sidelines. Every action we take, every prayer we whisper, every choice we make carries the weight of eternity, moving souls closer to the Kingdom. We’re actively part of an epic saga, a divine master plan, where our decisions, our prayers, and our faith play crucial roles.
A Call To Action
It’s time to wake up and answer the deep, stirring call within us. This call isn’t about physical battle, but about igniting our faith and passion. We’re called into a spiritual fight, one with immense stakes and meaningful victories.
Our mission? To stand strong for those in need, bringing them the light and hope only God can offer. This mission demands bravery, persistence, and unwavering faith. Each of us is equipped with unique gifts and a life position that allows us to make a difference. Whether it’s through personal talks, community service, or wider missions, our mandate remains: to love deeply, speak boldly, and pray without ceasing.
By embracing this call, we link arms with God, becoming a conduit for His love and grace. The journey might be tough, filled with challenges, but the ultimate reward—contributing to the eternal saving of souls—is beyond compare. We fight not just for today’s wins but for a future reshaped by Christ’s love. Remember – eternity weighs in the balance.