I Did It My Way

 "My Way" was a popular song some years ago. Sang first by Frank Sinatra, I think. Look him up on Google if you are not sure who he was. :)  Here are a few words from that song

And now, the end is near, And so I face the final curtain, My friend, I'll say it clear, I'll state my case, of which I'm certain

I've lived a life that's full, I traveled each and every highway, And more, much more than this, I did it my way

Do those words give you a feeling of satisfaction - maybe achievement? Nothing wrong with that - right? Well - it depends. Put that in the context of Proverbs.

Men make plans in their hearts, but God orders their steps. - Proverbs 16:9

We are always challenged to choose to do things our way or submit to God as He orders our steps. When Jesus was in the Garden praying to the Father, he asked for His way - being that He would not have to go down the path the Father had set His feet on - "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." - Luke 22:42

It is OK for us to want something that is not consistent with God's expressed will - that is not sin - temptation - yes - sin - no. But, choosing and following our own way when it is contrary to His expressed will - is! When we have rejected His way and do it our way, we often rationalize and cling to the idea that doing a good thing that is not God's will is still a good thing. But James wrote ... 

Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. - James 4:17

Our challenge is choosing the greater good. And God's good is always greater than mine - even when I think mine is pretty good. We must say - Like Jesus - Nevertheless, not my will, but yours (Father), be done!

If you are unwilling to do that, then your relationship with God is actually an alliance, not a family relationship. You have not surrendered your whole heart to Him. An alliance is a relationship that exists when two parties share a common, mutually beneficial interest. The bond between them is formed by those interests. But when there is no mutual interest then the relationship dissolves.

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone