One Drop of Mercy

During the small group Bible study that my wife and I attend, the discussion leader broached the classic question, "Does God have one 'perfect' person for you to marry, or is it our responsibility to choose wisely from among 'the trees of the forest'?" Not surprisingly, the question wasn't answered and we moved on to other matters of study. However, this morning, it occured to me that this question actually mirrors another classic question, "Does God choose who will be saved or do we choose to accept Him?" It is this issue that has divided churches, fueled heated debates, and left every (wise) theologian somewhat at a loss for words. Having said this, I'll avoid answering the question but will seek to perhaps refocus the discussion.

None of us deserve one drop of mercy though He pours out the whole cup like oil upon our heads.

When people struggle with the issue of predestination, I don't think that they truly doubt that God has chosen some to be saved and that others will not be saved. Scripture is clear on this. Romans 9:22-24 says,

"What if God, choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath–prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory–even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?"

What people struggle with is why a loving God would create someone for destruction--that He would not choose some for salvation. My lowly mind cannot fully grasp the answer. Yet, I hold on to this: I know that He is fully deserving to "make the riches of his glory known" so that we would praise Him for who He really is. If that means He does this by saving some and not others so that we would deeply appreciate His salvation and mercy, so be it! Who are we but earthen vessels? Should we then scoff at the Potter's hands and His merciful plans? None of us deserve one drop of mercy though He pours out the whole cup like oil upon our heads. Turn to praise Him, and then seek to do His will among the nations. Amen.