Responsibility and Sovereignty
God’s word is very clear. We are responsible for our thoughts, words, and deeds, AND at the same time God is sovereign over everything.
We are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12), AND God promises to work everything together for good (Romans 8:28).
God is totally holy, infinitely sovereign, and works all things after the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11).
God has a plan, is working His plan, and guarantees ultimate victory with righteous judgment, condemnation for some and glorification for others.
Right now, God is sanctifying us (believers), making us more like Christ (Romans 8:29). But, we must acknowledge our responsibility, and strive to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which we have been called (Ephesians 4:1).
Until glory, we will still sin, but, if we confess, God forgives and cleanses us (1 John 1:9). And our sin still results in consequences, some severe. At the same time, we know that in His sovereignty He has a purpose for everything that happens. We grieve our sin AND rejoice in His utter power over it.
Both. And.
What to do
We must diligently learn His word and strive to please Him (Ephesians 5:10). We must grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:15).
Let’s pray He strengthens us with power through His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:16) and walk in His will.
We must continually praise God. Our holy God is at work.
