Right from the beginning, Jehovah, Jesus Christ, knew what was in man. He knew that man was classified to Him with disobedience even from his youth (Genesis 8:20-21). He didn’t need anyone to tell Him about man or explain to Him what was in man because He already knew what was in man.
So it is today because He knows the thoughts and intents of the heart. He knows the end before the beginning. It’s a big mistake for any person regardless of the gender status that they may claim, the all-knowing God, Creator of humankind and animal kind, He knows. “And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man,” as it is written in John 2:25.
But, did the Lord leave us in our hopelessness? No, He did not nor has He now. A worse case scenario is cited with the dismal example of Sodom and Gomorrah. It demonstrates to us that there is no situation in which the Lord cannot be involved in and can correct it when we give Him the chance to do so if we allow Him to come into our hearts and filter through our conditions.
I just think the Almighty God is patient and long suffering. If a few of us appeal to Him, He will spare. Did he destroy everyone and everything in totality? No. He spared those who were willing, and He was willing to spare the whole city if only a small number were willing. You see how He is.
When you read and study the Bible, you will find and learn of the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness. God loves everyone. There is a consistent thread throughout the Bible that speaks of His forgiveness. He forgives repeatedly.
Yes, it is true that the Bible speaks strongly against certain subjects, especially against idolatry (which has been ill-defined) nowadays to suite one’s individual likings and dislikes. As the Lord opens my understanding as I read and meditate on Him, I see more of Him and deeply into Him. I see why worshipping things and certain principles that not Godly based leads and lead us away from Him.
He says in 3 John 1:2, “Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.” You will remember the conversation that Abraham had with Jehovah in Genesis 18:17-33 where he pleaded with God eloquently and respectfully to spare the cities (Sodom and Gomorrah) if at least 10 people were worthy (innocent) in the whole city.
Jehovah came to the cities because a cry out had been heard and had come to the ears of Jehovah, who confided in Abraham and telling him what He was about to do. In this conversation, Jehovah patiently listened to the pleas of Abraham.
Look at how Jehovah handled the situation, which is a guideline as to how we can handle our own life situations: (1) Jehovah comes down with His two attendants, most likely angels. Scripture states two men; but angels can be represented as men; (2) He had heard and had listened to those who had pleaded because of the grievous conditions which existed in the city.
(3) Jehovah surveyed the situation and circumstances before making a final decision as to the possible destruction about to take place. This lets us know that God is not impatient, but He is patient, not willing for any to perish. (4) He thinks carefully before deciding as to the plight of the cities. What does He do?
He “thinks in His own mind, the eye of His mind” (Genesis 18:17-19): “Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; because I have given my trust to Abraham; For I know him. He will command his children and his whole household after him?”
Jehovah reasons within Himself before He makes a final decision as to the fate of the cities. Then, He decides to go down. “I’m going to decide for myself whether the cry I have heard is the way things are. By seeing for myself, then I will know what the case is.”
Abraham is left alone with the LORD, and they have a long conversation – an exchange, which will determine the final destiny of the two cities. Just what will Jehovah do finally? This is a great teaching lesson for us to learn.
We don’t have to follow our first mind. Sometimes that mind could be wrong. You know how people say, “follow your first mind.” Follow your heart. But, scripture says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: (Jeremiah 17:9) who can know it?”
That’s not always the best mind to follow. Be like the Lord. Think things through. Seek wise counsel before acting. Even Jehovah inquired to listen to wise counsel from His chosen leader, Abraham. Was Abraham perfect? No. But, he was a trusted servant of God. The Lord was not impulsive and chose with whom He would seek an opinion and consult.
Thanks for reading! Jeanette Grattan Parker is founder-superintendent Today’s Fresh Start Charter School 4514 Crenshaw Boulevard, LA 90043, (323) 293-9826, www.todaysfreshstart.org (Ask Dr. Jeanette TM) Inquiring Minds Want to Know” All articles are copyright. All rights reserved © The Holy Bible New Testament, Errors? Let me know. Sundays for music & message: 11:30am {1-712-775-8971—code 266751} References: (The Holy Bible) Pray always. Don’t stop praying and hoping.