An Uncontrolling God

“We know that in everything God works for good, with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 RSV)

Have you ever wondered why some prayers are answered miraculously while others are not? If God is in complete control, why would He allow innocent beings to suffer? Is grace arbitrary? Why does God’s love seem inconsistent? 

God is powerful, but He is not controlling. God works for good, with those who love Him, with those who follow His purpose. God wants our cooperation. We are the body, the physical manifestation of the Spirit. Our arms, legs, voices, and minds are essential to executing God’s will. When we choose to pursue other interests, when we opt out of participating with God, things go awry. 

Every living thing is connected, and our behaviors and choices have far-reaching ramifications beyond our comprehension. Generations to come will reap both the good and the bad of our actions. God cannot be responsible for our behavior or the indirect consequences of our choices. It is in His nature to love relentlessly, without coercion.  We have an uncontrolling God who needs our cooperation. We know that in everything God works for good, with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.