To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps....A person's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way? (Proverbs 16:1,9, 20:24)CONCURRENCE, Modern people reason that either God is in change of history, working everything according to his plan, or we have freedom of choice. But the Bible says both are true at once. Theologians have called this '"concurrence." Jesus death on the cross was foreordained, absolutely certain, yet all the people who killed him were responsible for their actions (Acts 2:23).
The plans of the heart belong to us---they are our responsibility. The way God controls history does not force us to act. Yet all we do---every one of our steps---is part of his plan. This seeming paradox, while impossible to completely fathom, is supremely practical. It gives you enormous incentive to take personal initiative--poor choices will create pain and trouble. And yet, if you do fail, remember that you can't truly mess up your life. God will weave even your failings into his plan for you. 20:24 adds that therefore we should not worry about the fact---as others do---that we can't control our future. It is in God's hands.
Have you grasped this unique biblically balanced view of history, or are you more anxious or more passive than you should be?
PRAYER: Lord you are of eternity and I am of time and that is why I cannot grasp how every detail of history could be under the oontrol of your plan, and yet every human action be free and responsible. Yet they are, and I bow with fear and trembling before the incoomprehensible but wonderful wisdom of this. Amen
God's Wisdom For Navigating Life (Daily Devotions), Timothy Keller, with Kathy Keller
August 12
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