Another Fine Mess?

Editor's Note: We all have thoughts — some good - some bad, but nonetheless they are thoughts. Our thoughts should be reflected upon and dealt with biblically (Rom. 12:1-3; Gal. 6:3; Phil. 3:12-17; Phil. 4:8-9; 2 Pet. 3:1, etc.). ‘Just Thinkin' Out Loud' (spelling of ‘thinkin'' is purposeful) is a series of thoughts that are being made public. You may or may not agree with all of the thoughts you read in this series, but it will help all of us to discuss them — out loud. The hope of the author and editors at IIIM is that this will assist all of us to begin personal reflection upon our own thoughts and compare them with God's perspective in Holy Scripture. Readers are encouraged to use small discussion groups and/or our RPM forum for any irenic discussion(s) of these specific thoughts and others they may bring about.

Say you wanted to go to a favorite restaurant, but the parking lot was full, and you had to settle for a cafeteria elsewhere. And when you got there, got food and sat down, you sat down with friends you found there. Lo and behold, one of them picks up your ticket and won't let you pay. Yet, while you looked for that parking place a while ago, you muttered. You didn't get what you wanted. Who's in charge?

Write a piece for a publication, turn it in and the editor comes out looking like a human paper shredder. Who's in charge?

Maybe we should harken to Jeremiah 18, vv. 5&6.

While it is commendable and recommended that a believer be an avid student of the ways and Word of God, let not the believer think he has a handle on the whole counsel of God, especially to think that the ways of God can always be predicted. Such an attitude can lead to pride and, ultimately, disappointment and confusion.

It is foolishness to think that a totally committed believer won't be imposed upon, put upon, spat upon, and deprived of home, health, and family. If you think differently, go read the book of Job.

Don't stay mad at the person who crosses you. They're not in charge. Don't stay mad at God; you're not either.

Tell me what you think, I'm just thinkin' out loud.