Somebody has pointed out that there are two ways to reach the top of an oak tree—you can climb it or sit on an acorn and wait!
I was criticized for suggesting in a Daily Encounter that I wanted Jesus to be my co-pilot. I was informed that Jesus is to be our pilot.
I know that sounds good. However, in the Christian life it is sometimes difficult to discern how much God does for us and how much we need to do for ourselves. One thing is certain, God will do for us what we are not able to do for ourselves (that's why he sent Jesus to die in our place to pay the penalty for all our sins), but he won't do for us what we are quite capable of doing and need to do ourselves. If he did, he would be being codependent and that would keep us over-dependent, irresponsible and immature.
God has promised to give us wisdom if we ask for it, guidance if we seek it, and be with us wherever we go if we ask him to—providing we stay within the limits of his guidelines and boundaries. The fact is, however, that we are always responsible for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are in charge of our life.
When Abraham sent his chief servant (possibly Eliezer)2 to seek a wife for his son, Isaac, as he set out to do this, he prayed for God to direct and help him make the best choice. He didn't sit around waiting for "the right person" to come along. He went looking for her. However, as he did his part, God led him. That is why he said, "I being in the way, the Lord led me."
Doing our part is accepting personal responsibility. As I do this, I can rest assured God will do his part. We will sit and wait for a long time if we expect otherwise.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to act responsibly in everything I do and lean heavily on you for wisdom, guidance and direction. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name, amen."
1. Abraham's servant, Genesis 24:27 (KJV).
2. See Genesis 15:2.
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