From Pastor Ben
Trivia:
Last Saturday I ask if you knew which cosmetics company is named after the birthplace of William Shakespeare?
Avon L’Oréal Maybelline Revlon The answer is Avon, which is one of the largest cosmeticcompanies in the world. It derives its name from the picturesque town of Stratford-upon-Avon in England, famously known as the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare.
When during his visit to England, David McConnell, the visionary behind what initially was the "California Perfume Company" was struck by the beauty of the countryside surrounding Stratford-on-Avon, he decided to change the name of his company to "Avon" as a nod to the birthplace of the world's most celebrated playwright. How about them apples?
Challenge:
Eccl. 6:10
"Everything has already been decided. It was known long ago what each person would be. So there’s no use arguing with God about your destiny."
This verse is intentionally addressing an issue that many people struggle with: the concept of the supremacy of God in comparison to the limitations of humanity.
If you have a few minutes, you can read Paul's writings on these very same concerns in Romans 9-11.
In a nut shell, Romans 9 Paul talks about God's choice of Israel to be His chosen people. In Romans 10 he talks about God's desire to bring salvation to all men (Jews and Gentiles) alike. It is proclaimed there that anyone can receive His way of salvation. Roman 10:10 says, "by openly declaring your faith in Christ" that you will be saved. Then in Romans 11 Paul speaks of God's mercy on anyone who will call upon His name. He ends with these final thoughts, in Romans 11:33-36. "Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! 34 For who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? 35 And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back? 36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen."
So we see how Paul reminds us of the uselessness of arguing with our God. I'll tell you, in my short 72 years, I have learned just how to be miserable: Argue with God!
All I know is that God loves me so much that He sent His only son to die for me on the Cross. Therefore, because He loves me that much, I know that what He’s doing in my life—regardless of whether or not I understand it—is good enough for me.
SO GO WITH GOD for His ways are past finding out, but I can promise you this, my dear friend: That everything that is brought into our life, or is taken out of our life, is always wrapped up in His love for us. "So there’s no use arguing with God about your destiny." So, rest in His workings in your life, my dear one.