9/21/2014 There seems
to be something in the human psyche that is automatically drawn to the idea of
independence. Last Thursday’s referendum in Scotland is one the latest examples
of how people treasure the idea of self-rule. I have no intention of arguing the
case for or against the political independence of Scotland, but I am gravely
concerned about how many people let Satan convince them that autonomy is
preferable to submissiveness to the Lord. The devil had been advocating self-determination as a way of life since Adam and Eve were in Eden. Rather than depend upon and trust in their Creator, they chose to spurn His love and reject His infinite care. The trail of tears, misery, heartache, and pain which has plagued sinners since that time should be all the evidence we need to open our eyes to the folly of seeking independence from God. But we never seem to learn the most critical lessons. A ravenous appetite for freedom from being bound by the decisions of others has fueled a number of revolutions like our own nation’s. Those who feel unduly restrained by the limits of man-made laws, often fight for freedom / independence. But why would anyone chose to reject the directives of an infinitely wise mind who has graciously revealed what to do and how to live in order to avoid the consequences of their own lawless deeds? (Rom. 3:23; 6:23) The only possible explanation is precisely the same as the one Paul gives when describing those who choose to listen to the agents of Satan and perish. Paul said of them, “...they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved” and believed a lie because they “had pleasure in unrighteousness”. (2 Thes. 2:10-12) The lure of complete independence is a lie! Satan will say, “Do your own thing and you will be happier. Never let anyone tell you what to think, especially God. ” Although this sounds good, he lies. The rich man who chose perceived freedom from law over submission to his loving law-giver, learned that he was wrong after it was too late to change his mind. (Luke 16:19-31). Listen to God, not Satan. There is no such thing as absolute freedom. We are all slaves; either we serve sin or we serve righteousness (Rom. 6:16). There is no neutral ground. The lure of outright independence is a lie. We are dependent beings. Almighty God is the one in whom “we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Satan will try to convince you otherwise. His campaign slogan is FREEDOM. Don’t believe it! A “vote” for independence from the Sovereign Ruler of the universe is a vote for death, i.e. eternal separation from God. Choose rather to serve God and live; live eternally. Ken Dart |
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