In consideration of the intentions of God, it should be known that His desire is for all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. His thoughts toward us are clearly spelled out in Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
This, however, is a one-sided commentary. Unless we are obedient, nothing can be accomplished. Hence, the question does not center around God’s motives or the intent of His heart. The question concerns God’s people. An old preacher once said, “He will if We will.” He is able if we believe. He is forgiving if we seek forgiveness. Therefore, the inquiry rests on our intentions and not His. The issue has never been the blessing of the Lord. We must pursue it to receive it.
The children of Israel were given the blessing of Abraham. They were the carriers of the Covenant! The profundity of that statement is overwhelming, though I dare say few modern believers can grasp such a thing. However, the Israelites in the wilderness did not take possession of the promises. Some of them blamed God, some blamed Moses, some Joshuaome adopted the patterns and gods of their heathen environment; as if Jehovah was somehow inept or unconcerned. It was in their hands, but they forfeited their blessing.
As in the case of any decent father, we want the best for our children. We hope to pave the way through prayer, planning, and preparation. Yet, ultimately they must work and apply themselves to the opportunity set before them. Our Heavenly Father has given all that can be given. There is nothing more that must be done. The remainder is up to us.
Shall we see souls saved? We must reach them. Will we build a new sanctuary and expand our vision? We must sacrifice. Will our children and families stay grounded in the Truth; faithful to the Apostolic message; constrained by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and live a holy, set apart life? It will be up to us to live what we believe and example it in our own lives. These are the pressing issues of our hour.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole