Freewill: We All Have to Make A Choice

This morning, I had the chance to talk with someone older and wiser than I prior to our morning Bible study. He's older, but boy, does he still have energy! He's one of those guys you aspire to be when you're in your 70s. God willing, I will be!

We were discussing the difficulties of parenting kids who are entering interesting years—the years when they will be faced with decisions that parents aren't always around to shepherd them through. He told his sons early on that while they live under his roof, they play by his rules. But sooner or later, they’ll also be faced with a choice: What values will they hold dear? What principles will they live by? What corners will they cut—or not cut?

These decisions come for all of us, and regardless of our upbringings, we all must eventually choose for ourselves. This is the way that God designed it, and for a reason. Real love only comes from a free and willing heart, and He allows all of us the option to choose.

Here are some quick Bible verses on freewill:

Joshua 24:15 – "And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Proverbs 16:9 – "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."

We have the freedom to plan our lives, but God ultimately guides our path.

Galatians 5:13 – "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."

Paul reminds believers that free will should be used to serve others and honor God.

Revelation 3:20 – "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."

Jesus presents an invitation, but it is up to each person to choose to accept Him.

These verses show that while God has a plan, He allows us the freedom to choose Him or go our own way.

I thank God that He has surrounded me with others who have made their choices clear. Their values and principles play out daily and show the conviction they have to act boldly in their work, raising their families, and giving their time to causes they appreciate.

Just remember as you head into this weekend: Our choices are real, have consequences, and matter to God. He allows us to have them for a reason, and it isn't trivial. We should all search our hearts to ensure that the gift of freewill given to us is used to glorify the Giver.

As we enter next week, let’s go for it and give others a reason to choose God’s path as well!

-Mark