WAYS

Isaiah 55:8-9 – For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My WAYS, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My WAYS higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

We well educated human beings tend to have a little trouble with this verse, or at least I do. I understand that God is sovereign and that He is all wise, but I still think I can run the world, or at least my little corner of it, sometimes. And I even go so far as to be put out when God doesn't give me a step-by-step diagram when it pertains to His plans for my life – as if I could improve or even comment on His outline! The words trust and obey come to mind at a time like this.

God gave us the perfect example in raising children. Even if you don't have children, you were one once so you can relate. I tell my children that they are not (no, not maybe) allowed to eat sugary junk food all day long, period. (I love when we say "period" as if they can feel the impact). They want to know why and have a debate. How insulting! Now, I could accommodate them with a stack of documentations from notable dentists, pediatricians, and cardiologists with case studies of the affects of sugar and fat on the human body. I could try to explain the physiologic decay of tooth enamel and rising cholesterol levels in vessels, but I know this would just be over their sweet little heads. They must trust my better judgment and obey my wise instruction. Even if I explained to them in detail the terrible and painful consequences of their actions, would it really make a difference. Wouldn't they still respond with the old "that won't happen to me" statement that we have all used at one time or another?

Unfortunately, there are times when they have disobeyed and lied and now punishment must be administered. Why? Because I'm mean and don't want them to enjoy a few M&M's? Heavens no! I love my children dearly and want only the best for them, and because of that great love for their well being they must learn obedience to authority – PERIOD!

Forgive us Lord for acting like children. For sneaking and lying and disobeying your simple commands. Commands that are for our own good. We do believe that Your ways are higher than ours, and even if we were given every single detail it would probably still be over our sweet little heads. Amen. (Now I'm craving M&M's)