Lately, I’ve read in the news many proposals complete with a divine stamp of approval. I started making a list. It’s not exhaustive, but a short list on God’s will. For instance, God desires…
- We know His will (Ephesians 5:17)
- We give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7)
- We abstain from immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3)
- We give thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
- We build a third airport in Chicago
- We bear fruit (John 15:1-8)
- We do good (1 Peter 2:15)
- We support the Governor’s pension reforms
- We remain filled with His Spirit (Ephesians 5:18)
- We make disciples (Matt 28:18-20)
- We put on the armor of God and elect Mitt Romney
- We pray for our leaders (2 Timothy 2:1-4)
Do some of these strike you as a bit… goofy? My point isn’t to say anything about pension reforms or the upcoming Presidential election. Perhaps an argument can be made for a third airport in Chicago?
What I want to get across is the frequency that man cites God. When reason, funding, friends, or support aren’t all that high, just imply it’s the will of God. It’s sure to elevate your plans and put them beyond the pale of discussion. Afterall, God wants this.
Politicians do it. So do church leaders. Regardless, it’s demeaning to the God of the Universe who doesn’t take His cues from us. Isaiah 55:8-9 comes to mind:
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.