8.3 To Love God
Love Cannot Be Forced

Read Matthew 22:37 and Deuteronomy 6:4–5. What do these verses teach about the reality of free will?

The verses in Matthew 22:37 and Deuteronomy 6:4–5 show that God links the greatest commandment to a conscious decision: “You shall love the Lord your God…” This call confirms the reality of free will, because true love is only possible when it is given voluntarily.

God could use His omnipotence to make every person love Him—but He does not. Why? Because love that is forced is not genuine love. A robot can be programmed to say, “I love you,” but it would have no value. Likewise, forced love would neither honor God nor enable a true relationship.

Free will is therefore an essential part of faith. God invites us to love Him, but He does not force us. Every individual has the choice whether to love God and trust Him. This also means that some will deliberately choose against Him. But true love—the love God desires from us—arises from a free and sincere decision of the heart.

This idea has profound implications for our lives: our relationship with God is not defined by fear or compulsion, but by the freedom to respond to His love. The question is not whether God loves us—He has already proven that. The question is whether we will return His love of our own free will.

Read Hebrews 6:17–18 and Titus 1:2. What do these texts teach us about God?

The verses in Hebrews 6:17–18 and Titus 1:2 reveal a fundamental truth about God’s nature: God does not lie and never breaks His promises. His assurances are not dependent on human fickleness; they are based on His absolute faithfulness. This means that God is completely trustworthy—if He promises something, He will fulfill it.

One of God’s greatest promises is the free will He has given to us humans. Yet precisely because God does not lie and always remains faithful to His promises, He will not simply revoke or manipulate free will. If He grants us the freedom to choose, then He will also allow us to bear the consequences of our decisions—even if they go against His ideal will.

This shows a profound truth: not everything that happens is God’s will. Many things in the world do not occur because God wants them to, but because humans use their freedom in a way that goes against God’s original plan. Nevertheless, God remains faithful, accompanies us, and always offers us a way back to Him.

This realization reminds us that God’s promises are unchanging, but our decisions play a part. It is not up to God how we use our free will—but He always remains the same, full of truth, love, and mercy. He keeps His promises, even though we often fail.

What have you done, knowing God did not want you to do it? What does this teach us about the reality—and the potentially terrible consequences—of free will?

This question leads us to a profound reflection on free will and the responsibility that comes with it. Everyone has made decisions in life that they knew did not align with God’s will. Whether it was words spoken in anger, actions driven by selfishness, or paths taken despite a warning conscience—free will enables us to do both good and bad.

The Bible repeatedly shows that God gives us freedom but also allows us to face the consequences of our choices (Galatians 6:7: “For whatever one sows, that will he also reap”). When we deliberately act against God’s will, we often experience painful outcomes—not because God wants to punish us, but because every action has natural consequences. A lie can destroy trust; bad decisions can ruin relationships; a life far from God can lead to inner emptiness and hopelessness.

Even though free will can be dangerous, it is also a gift. It not only allows us to make mistakes but also to consciously return to God. God forces no one to repent, but He offers it time and again (1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins”).

This reality reminds us of two things:

1. Free will is precious and must be used responsibly. We cannot simply do whatever we want without facing the consequences.

2. God’s love and grace are greater than our failures. Even when we stray from His path, He always gives us the chance to come back.

Ultimately, free will teaches us that God desires genuine relationships—relationships based on love, not compulsion. He waits for us to come to Him willingly, no matter what choices we have made in the past.

The truth that God has endowed us with free will and does not force our love has far-reaching implications for our daily lives and our faith. It shows that our relationship with God—like any meaningful human relationship—is based on voluntary devotion and genuine trust.

1. Faith as a conscious decision

   Every day we face the choice: Will we follow God’s way or our own will? Faith is not a one-time decision but a daily reorientation of our hearts. Loving God is not just words; it involves concrete actions that show we truly put Him first.

2. Responsibility for our actions

   Because God grants us freedom, we are also responsible for our decisions. We cannot blame God’s will when we make mistakes or choose the wrong path. Our free will means we are able to make decisions—but also that we must live with the consequences.

3. Love in interpersonal relationships

   Just as God does not force us to love Him, we should not force others—whether in matters of faith or daily interactions. True love can only be given voluntarily. This means we should not manipulate or control others but treat them with respect and patience—just as God does with us.

4. God’s faithfulness despite our failures

   Even when we distance ourselves from God, His love remains. God always gives us a new chance to return to Him. This means we are never hopeless—no matter how far we have strayed, God always waits with open arms.

5. The value of repentance and forgiveness

   Free will not only allows us to fail but also to rise again. Any decision that has led us away from God can be corrected through a conscious turning back to Him. God does not force repentance, but He always offers us the opportunity to start anew.

Conclusion
God’s love is a gift that must be received voluntarily. Every day, we have the choice to respond to His invitation or to go our own way. Free will is a great responsibility, but it is also an opportunity—an opportunity to encounter God with a genuine, free, and loving heart.

True love cannot be forced—it is a deliberate choice of the heart.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-free-will-love-and-divine-providence-8-3-to-love-god-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

February 18, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Titus Chapter 3

¹ Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

² To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

³ For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

⁴ But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

⁵ Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

⁶ Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

⁷ That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

⁸ This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

⁹ But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

¹⁰ A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

¹¹ Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

¹² When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

¹³ Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.

¹⁴ And let our’s also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

¹⁵ All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The third chapter of Titus is a compelling exhortation from the Apostle Paul to Titus and the Christians in Crete on how they should conduct themselves as believers in the world. He emphasizes the necessity of obedience to authorities, readiness for good works, and a peaceful attitude toward all people. Paul reminds them that all believers were once living in sin but were redeemed by God’s mercy. This new life in Christ calls for a rejection of futile disputes and a lifestyle that testifies to their faith. Additionally, Paul provides practical instructions for church service and concludes the letter with personal greetings.

Commentary

1.Christian Duties in Society (Verses 1–2)

Paul urges believers to submit to authorities, be ready for good works, and demonstrate gentleness toward all people. This highlights that Christians should bear witness to their faith through their way of life.

2.The Foundation of Our Salvation (Verses 3–7)

Paul reminds the believers that they too once lived in sin, but they were justified not by their own works but by God’s mercy. The renewal through the Holy Spirit makes them heirs of eternal life. This salvation is solely a work of God’s grace.

3.The Importance of Good Works (Verse 8)

Faith and works are not opposed to each other but complement one another. Paul emphasizes that believers should be committed to good works, as they are beneficial to people. Christian faith is expressed through active and tangible love.

4.Warning Against Strife and False Teachings (Verses 9–11)

Paul warns against pointless discussions on trivial matters such as genealogies and legal disputes. False teachers who refuse to listen after multiple admonitions should be avoided. Those who spread false doctrines condemn themselves spiritually.

5.Practical Instructions and Final Greetings (Verses 12–15)

Paul gives Titus guidance on organizing the church, particularly in supporting ministers of the Gospel. He encourages believers to engage in good works so that they will not be “unfruitful.” The letter concludes with warm greetings and a blessing.

Summary

Titus 3 teaches that Christians should be a light in the world through their conduct. They are to submit to governing authorities, be peaceful, and excel in good works. Paul makes it clear that salvation comes solely through God’s mercy and not through human effort. At the same time, he underscores the necessity of a godly lifestyle as an expression of faith. Unnecessary disputes and false teachings should be avoided, while the church should focus on the practical well-being of fellow believers. The letter ends with words of blessing and encouragement to remain in God’s grace.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 5—Consecration
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction: The Meaning of Devotion

Devotion to God is not a one-time act but a profound, life-changing decision. The Lord promises that those who seek Him with all their heart will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13-14). Yet true devotion requires humility, a struggle against one’s own self, and a complete renewal of our being. Our sinful nature has separated us from God, but He calls us to repentance and offers us the opportunity to return to His presence through His grace. This chapter demonstrates that devotion is not merely an outward confession but a total self-abandonment—a decision that leads us from the slavery of sin into the freedom of the children of God.

Commentary: The Struggle for Complete Devotion

The greatest challenge in a believer’s life is the battle against one’s own self. Paul describes this inner conflict as a spiritual struggle that requires a conscious decision to submit our own will to God’s authority. God does not force us into submission; rather, He invites us to come to Him freely.

Devotion means not only abandoning bad habits but also letting go of everything that separates us from God. For some, it is wealth; for others, honor, comfort, or self-will. Yet Christ demands a complete decision: “Any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).

A superficial faith or half-hearted Christianity leads to an empty, worthless service to God. Those who devote themselves entirely to Christ experience a deep love and joy that surpasses all earthly bonds. Only when Christ fully fills our hearts do we stop asking for the slightest requirement for heaven, but instead strive for complete alignment with His will.

Nevertheless, many find it difficult to take this step. People cling to their old nature out of fear of change or because they are aware of their own weakness. But God demands nothing impossible. The only prerequisite for complete devotion is the decision to surrender our will to God. Once we entrust ourselves to Him, He works in us to will and to act according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).

Summary: The Choice Between Slavery and Freedom

Chapter 5 clearly shows that devotion to God is a conscious decision. Every person faces the choice: either to remain in the slavery of sin or to experience the wonderful freedom of being a child of God. This devotion is not passive but requires an active decision to let go of our self and completely entrust our lives to Christ.

God does not force anyone into submission; rather, He calls us in love and patience. Those who recognize His love will not ask how little they must do, but will be willing to give everything. Yet this step demands courage, humility, and trust in God’s promises.

Ultimately, it is the free will of each person that determines whether they accept or reject God’s offer. Those who surrender their will to God experience a complete transformation—a new life characterized by faith, love, and true freedom.

 *  *  *  *  *

The Keys to True Devotion to God:

1.Complete Devotion to God is Necessary for Renewal

• Our sinful nature has estranged us from God, and only through total devotion can spiritual restoration occur. God does not force us into submission but invites us to seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13-14).

2.The Battle Against One’s Own Self is the Greatest Challenge

• The greatest obstacle on the path to God is our own will. Total submission of our personality to God’s will requires humility and self-sacrifice. Without this devotion, true change cannot occur.

3.God Accepts No Forced Worship

• God desires a voluntary decision for Him. Forced devotion would be meaningless, as it would engage neither our heart nor our mind (Isaiah 1:18).

4.Devotion Means Letting Go of Worldly Attachments

• Everything that separates us from God—be it wealth, fame, comfort, or self-will—must be relinquished. Jesus demands that we give Him priority over everything else (Luke 14:33).

5.The Decision to Devote Oneself Leads to True Freedom

• Those who completely surrender to Christ experience the true freedom of being God’s children. This devotion does not result in loss, but in gain—the liberation from sin, peace with God, and a life filled with His love and grace.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-02-2025-titus-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/

8.2 Pantokrator
God’s Omnipotence and Human Freedom

Read Revelation 11:17; Jeremiah 32:17–20; Luke 1:37 and Matthew 19:26. Also note Hebrews 1:3. What do these passages teach us about God’s power?

The Bible reveals God as the Almighty (Pantokrator), who not only created everything but also sustains the world by His power (Hebrews 1:3). Revelation 11:17 and Jeremiah 32:17–20 show that nothing is too great or too difficult for God—He is the Lord of history and of all human events. Yet His omnipotence is not to be confused with unlimited, arbitrary action. The Bible teaches that God cannot act against His own nature (2 Timothy 2:13) and that despite His omnipotence, there are certain things He does not do because they would contradict His essence.

This is impressively demonstrated in the story of Jesus: God could have prevented Him from suffering on the cross, yet His justice and love required a decision for the salvation of humanity (Matthew 26:39). Thus, we see that true omnipotence does not consist in being able to do everything, but in acting with infinite wisdom to bring about the best for His creation. God’s power is not manifested in arbitrary coercion but in His sovereign love, which grants freedom, directs, and in the midst of human decisions fulfills His perfect plan.

The Bible teaches that God wants to save all people (e.g., 1 Timothy 2:4–6; Titus 2:11; 2 Peter 3:9; Ezekiel 33:11), but not everyone will be saved. What does this fact teach us about the reality of free will and the limits of God’s power over beings who possess free will?

This fact reveals one of the deepest truths about God’s relationship with humanity: His power is unlimited, yet it operates in accordance with His nature, which is love.

God wants all people to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), but He does not force anyone into salvation. His love is not coercive; rather, it invites, calls, and patiently waits (Ezekiel 33:11). The free will of man is a gift from God that allows us to accept or reject His love. However, this also means that God’s omnipotence is “limited” by His own decision—not because He cannot do otherwise, but because He does not want love to be forced.

The Bible shows that people can live according to their own choices outside of God’s will (2 Peter 3:9). If God were to force salvation upon us, He would nullify the free will that He has granted humanity. But true love can only be reciprocated voluntarily.

This reality presents us with a choice: Do we want to accept God’s love, or do we choose against it? While God wishes to save everyone, the decision ultimately lies in each individual’s hands. This underscores the serious responsibility of man and the profound truth that God seeks a relationship with free creatures—not with puppets, but with children who choose to love Him of their own free will.

The understanding that God is almighty but does not act arbitrarily has profound implications for our daily lives and our faith. It gives us a new perspective on God’s power, our free will, and our responsibility.

1. God’s Omnipotence Means Hope, Not Coercion

   • Because God is Pantokrator, the Almighty, we can trust that nothing is beyond His control. No matter how difficult our situation is, He is capable of bringing good out of it (Romans 8:28). At the same time, He does not force us to follow Him but lovingly invites us.

2. Our Free Will Requires Responsibility

   • God could force us into every decision, but He does not. He gives us the freedom to choose, which means that we bear the responsibility for our actions. Every decision—whether in daily life, in faith, or in relationships—should be made with the awareness that God offers us His wisdom while respecting our choice.

3. God’s Power Is Effective in Our Weakness

   • Often we feel overwhelmed and helpless. Yet Luke 1:37 reminds us, “For with God nothing will be impossible.” This does not mean that God always intervenes in the way we expect, but that in every situation He provides the strength to endure and grow.

4. God Invites, but He Does Not Force

   • God wants all people to be saved, but not everyone will be saved. This shows us that love and faith are genuine choices. Our faith is strongest when it grows not from coercion but from conviction and love for God.

5. Prayer Is Not Manipulation, But Trust

   • If God is omnipotent yet does not act against His character, then our prayers are not meant to “persuade” Him to do something that is not in His plan. Instead, prayer helps us to better understand His will and to align our hearts with Him.

Summary

God’s omnipotence is not demonstrated by forcing everything to occur according to His will, but by giving us freedom while acting sovereignly. In everyday life, this means that we make our decisions consciously, trusting that He guides us. It also means that through prayer we seek His strength rather than trying to manipulate Him. And it means that in difficult times, we can rely on His power because nothing is outside of His control—even if He sometimes leads us through trials rather than preventing them.

God’s omnipotence is not about coercion, but about His love, which grants us the freedom to choose Him with our own hearts.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-free-will-love-and-divine-providence-8-2-pantokrator-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

February 17, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Titus Chapter 2

¹ But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

² That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

³ The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

⁴ That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

⁵ To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

⁶ Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

⁷ In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

⁸ Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

⁹ Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;

¹⁰ Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

¹¹ For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

¹² Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

¹³ Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

¹⁴ Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

¹⁵ These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Titus 2 provides instructions for a godly life within the Christian community. Paul urges Titus to present sound teaching that is demonstrated not only through words but also through a corresponding lifestyle. He addresses various groups—older men and women, younger men and women, as well as servants—to underscore the importance of personal responsibility in faith. In the second part of the chapter, Paul shows that God’s grace not only saves but also educates believers toward holiness. This grace is meant to enable believers to lead a righteous and devout life as they await the return of Christ.

Commentary

1. The Responsibility of Each Group in the Church (Verses 1–10)

   Paul emphasizes that sound teaching must be accompanied by a holy lifestyle.

• Older Men (v. 2): They are to be examples in faith, love, patience, and dignity.

• Older Women (vv. 3–5): They are to lead a holy life, refrain from slander, and instruct younger women in wisdom and virtue.

• Young Men (vv. 6–8): They are to practice self-control and demonstrate exemplary behavior. Titus himself should serve as a living example for them.

• Servants (vv. 9–10): They are to show obedience, loyalty, and honesty so that God’s teaching becomes visible in their lives.

These passages make it clear that every member’s behavior in the church affects the credibility of the Christian message.

2. Saving Grace as the Basis for a Godly Life (Verses 11–14)

   Paul clarifies that the foundation for Christian living is the grace of God:

• God’s Grace Has Appeared to All People (v. 11): Salvation is available to everyone.

• Grace Leads to Holiness (v. 12): It enables believers to turn away from sinful desires and live righteously.

• Grace Gives Hope (v. 13): Believers should live with the awareness of Christ’s return.

• Grace Motivates Good Works (v. 14): Jesus has cleansed His people so that they would be zealous for good deeds.

It becomes evident here that grace does not merely mean forgiveness but also possesses a life-changing power.

3. The Authority of Proclamation (Verse 15)

   Titus is to teach with determination and clarity:

• “Speak and exhort with all authority.” The truth of the gospel must be communicated without compromise.

• “Let no one disregard you.” Resistance or rejection should not hinder the proclamation of the message.

This exhortation remains relevant today: the message of holiness and grace must be proclaimed boldly and with conviction.

Summary

Titus 2 combines sound teaching with practical application in daily life. Paul calls on every member of the church to bear witness to the gospel through their lifestyle. The foundation for this is the grace of God, which not only saves but also trains believers in holiness. Finally, Titus is encouraged to teach this truth with authority. The chapter reminds us that Christian faith must be visible not just in words, but especially in everyday living.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 5—Consecration
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction: The Meaning of Devotion

Devotion to God is not a one-time act but a profound, life-changing decision. The Lord promises that those who seek Him with all their heart will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13-14). Yet true devotion requires humility, a struggle against one’s own self, and a complete renewal of our being. Our sinful nature has separated us from God, but He calls us to repentance and offers us the opportunity to return to His presence through His grace. This chapter demonstrates that devotion is not merely an outward confession but a total self-abandonment—a decision that leads us from the slavery of sin into the freedom of the children of God.

Commentary: The Struggle for Complete Devotion

The greatest challenge in a believer’s life is the battle against one’s own self. Paul describes this inner conflict as a spiritual struggle that requires a conscious decision to submit our own will to God’s authority. God does not force us into submission; rather, He invites us to come to Him freely.

Devotion means not only abandoning bad habits but also letting go of everything that separates us from God. For some, it is wealth; for others, honor, comfort, or self-will. Yet Christ demands a complete decision: “Any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).

A superficial faith or half-hearted Christianity leads to an empty, worthless service to God. Those who devote themselves entirely to Christ experience a deep love and joy that surpasses all earthly bonds. Only when Christ fully fills our hearts do we stop asking for the slightest requirement for heaven, but instead strive for complete alignment with His will.

Nevertheless, many find it difficult to take this step. People cling to their old nature out of fear of change or because they are aware of their own weakness. But God demands nothing impossible. The only prerequisite for complete devotion is the decision to surrender our will to God. Once we entrust ourselves to Him, He works in us to will and to act according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).

Summary: The Choice Between Slavery and Freedom

Chapter 5 clearly shows that devotion to God is a conscious decision. Every person faces the choice: either to remain in the slavery of sin or to experience the wonderful freedom of being a child of God. This devotion is not passive but requires an active decision to let go of our self and completely entrust our lives to Christ.

God does not force anyone into submission; rather, He calls us in love and patience. Those who recognize His love will not ask how little they must do, but will be willing to give everything. Yet this step demands courage, humility, and trust in God’s promises.

Ultimately, it is the free will of each person that determines whether they accept or reject God’s offer. Those who surrender their will to God experience a complete transformation—a new life characterized by faith, love, and true freedom.

 *  *  *  *  *

The Keys to True Devotion to God:

1.Complete Devotion to God is Necessary for Renewal

• Our sinful nature has estranged us from God, and only through total devotion can spiritual restoration occur. God does not force us into submission but invites us to seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13-14).

2.The Battle Against One’s Own Self is the Greatest Challenge

• The greatest obstacle on the path to God is our own will. Total submission of our personality to God’s will requires humility and self-sacrifice. Without this devotion, true change cannot occur.

3.God Accepts No Forced Worship

• God desires a voluntary decision for Him. Forced devotion would be meaningless, as it would engage neither our heart nor our mind (Isaiah 1:18).

4.Devotion Means Letting Go of Worldly Attachments

• Everything that separates us from God—be it wealth, fame, comfort, or self-will—must be relinquished. Jesus demands that we give Him priority over everything else (Luke 14:33).

5.The Decision to Devote Oneself Leads to True Freedom

• Those who completely surrender to Christ experience the true freedom of being God’s children. This devotion does not result in loss, but in gain—the liberation from sin, peace with God, and a life filled with His love and grace.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/17-02-2025-titus-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence
Free Will, Love, and God’s Work in the World

8.1 Our Sovereign God
God’s Will and Human Decisions

The idea that God, as the sovereign ruler, directly controls everything that happens—whether good or bad—and causes every event to occur exactly as He desires leads to theological challenges. An all-powerful God could theoretically direct everything according to His will, yet the Bible shows that God has given human beings free will. This means that not everything that occurs in the world necessarily corresponds to God’s original will.

A crucial point is that God’s reign should not be equated with an authoritarian intervention in every single situation. God has given humanity the freedom to make choices that often run contrary to His ideal purpose. The pain and suffering we experience are frequently the consequences of these choices or the natural result of a fallen world.

God’s sovereignty does not mean that He causes evil or wills every tragedy. Rather, He accompanies us through our challenges, helps us during difficult times, and even uses hard situations to foster our spiritual growth. An understanding of God’s rule that fails to distinguish between His ideal will and the state of the world distorted by sin can easily lead to misconceptions about God’s character.

God is the ruler, but He exercises His power with love and patience. He does not force but invites. He provides guidance while respecting human free will. His goal is not to arbitrarily permit or cause suffering but to lead us, through His providence, into a life in relationship with Him.

Read Psalm 81:12–15; Isaiah 30:15,18; Isaiah 66:4; and Luke 13:34. What do these texts say about whether God’s will is always fulfilled?

The Bible clearly shows us that God’s will does not always occur because He has given humanity the freedom to make their own decisions. In the cited passages, it becomes apparent that God desires His people to follow Him, yet often they reject His will. This means that not everything that happens in the world is automatically God’s will—instead, we experience the consequences of human choices that frequently contradict God’s intentions.

Psalm 81:12–15 reveals God’s longing to bless and guide His people, but their stubbornness prevents this. Isaiah 30:15,18 shows that God’s plan is for salvation and rest for His people, yet many refuse to trust Him. Isaiah 66:4 emphasizes that God has made His will known to humanity, yet they consciously choose the opposite. Finally, Luke 13:34 presents the painful picture of a loving God who wishes to gather His people like a hen gathers her chicks, but they reject Him.

These passages illustrate a profound truth: God does not force anyone to do His will. He calls, invites, and appeals to our hearts—but He respects human freedom. This results in many things occurring that do not align with His ideal will. Yet, despite rejection and disobedience, God’s love remains, and He continues to seek ways to bring people back to Himself.

Consider the implications of a theology that attributes everything that happens directly to God’s will. What deep problems, especially concerning evil, would such a theology raise?

A theology that teaches that everything that happens is exactly the direct will of God leads to significant theological and ethical problems—particularly regarding evil and suffering in the world.

1. God Would Be Held Responsible for Evil

   • If every event—including wars, natural disasters, diseases, or personal suffering—were God’s direct decision, it would mean that God consciously and deliberately causes evil. This contradicts the biblical revelation of a just and loving God (1 John 4:8).

2. Human Free Will Would Be Meaningless

   • The Bible repeatedly shows that God gives human beings the freedom to choose for or against Him. If everything were determined directly by God, there would be no true freedom of choice, and concepts such as responsibility, sin, and obedience would become meaningless.

3. Suffering and Injustice Would Be Seen as God’s Will

   • Such a theology could lead people to passively accept suffering rather than actively pursuing justice and compassion. If one assumes that everything is God’s will, one might avoid addressing how to respond to injustice and suffering.

4. God’s Justice and Love Would Be Questioned

   • How could a just and merciful God desire that children suffer, that people are treated cruelly, or that innocent individuals become victims of disasters? A theology attributing everything to God’s direct will could raise doubts about His character and shake the faith of many.

5. Prayer and the Faith in Change Would Become Meaningless

   • If everything happens exactly as God wills, it would be pointless to pray or hope for change. However, the Bible clearly demonstrates that prayer and faith play an important role, and that God delights in the responses of His creatures (e.g., 2 Chronicles 7:14).

Biblical Perspective: God’s Sovereign Will and Human Decisions

The Bible shows that while God is sovereign, He does not directly cause every single event. He has given human beings freedom and often works through His providence, even using difficult situations to bring about good (Romans 8:28). Yet there are things that do not align with His ideal will—such as sin, injustice, and the rejection of His love.

A biblically balanced theology acknowledges that God is sovereign while also granting human freedom. The evil in the world is not God’s direct intention but a consequence of human decisions and a fallen creation. Still, God remains the Lord over history and works to bring everything to good, without nullifying human free will.

Understanding that God is the sovereign ruler but does not directly cause or enforce every event has profound implications for our faith and our daily lives.

1. Responsibility for Our Decisions

   • We are not puppets of God; we have the freedom to make our own decisions. This also means that we are responsible for our actions. Our moral choices have consequences, and we should consciously seek God’s will rather than blindly blame Him for everything.

2. God Is Not the Author of Suffering but Our Companion

   • In difficult times, we can be assured that God does not cause our suffering; He walks with us through the hardships. He uses challenges to strengthen us and bring us closer to Him (Romans 8:28). Knowing this can provide us with comfort and hope, even when we do not understand everything.

3. Prayer as an Active Relationship with God

   • When we believe that not everything is directly willed by God, we recognize that our prayers have meaning. Prayer is not merely a ritual but a means to engage in dialogue with God, to seek His will, and to experience His guidance in our lives.

4. Practicing Justice and Compassion

   • Instead of accepting injustice as “God’s will,” the Bible calls us to actively oppose wrongdoing and suffering. God desires that we stand up for the weak, practice mercy, and embody love (Micah 6:8).

5. God Forces No One—Not Even Us

   • Because God grants us freedom, we should not impose our faith on others. True faith grows from a voluntary relationship with God, not from coercion or fear. This encourages us to live our faith authentically and to lovingly invite others, rather than judge them.

Summary

Our daily lives and our faith are deeply connected to our understanding of God’s reign. He is not a tyrant who manipulates everything but a loving Father who grants us freedom. This freedom brings responsibility, but also the wonderful opportunity to consciously respond to God’s love. By actively working for justice, trusting God in prayer, and knowing that He accompanies us in difficult times, we can come to recognize His true character and align our lives with His will.

God’s love does not force—it invites; true devotion comes from a willing heart.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-free-will-love-and-divine-providence-8-1-our-sovereign-god-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/