Why did God plant the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil next to the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden? Didn’t He know Adam and Eve would eventually choose to eat the fruit of the wrong tree, plunging the whole world into chaos? What could be more important than the safety of the entire human race?
Could it be that our freedom of choice is a gift even God won’t override? His stance contrasts sharply with the pushing and pulling, the badgering and bullying by people—often well-meaning, often Christians—attempting to persuade others to believe as they do. But God’s Word is full of stories of people given choices and permission to make them, even when they chose poorly.
Before the children of Israel stepped into the Promised Land, Moses warned them: "I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;" (Deuteronomy 30:19, NKJV)
It didn’t take long, however, for the people to follow their feelings and decide they knew better than God. Naturally, it did not end well. Things haven’t improved with time.
Even though the rich, young ruler asked Jesus the way to eternal life, he didn’t like Christ’s answer:
“One thing you lack: ‘Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.’” Too costly, the young man decided and departed. To his credit, “he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful...” (Mark:10:21-22, NKJV)
What did Jesus do? The Lord had the ability to zap the man to his knees. (That will happen, but not today. Phil. 2:10) Jesus didn’t put forth an argument. (Jesus would have won.) Jesus didn’t bargain, threaten, or plead. Instead, Jesus looked at him, loved him, and let him go!
Why?! If Jesus really loved him, knowing the foolishness of his choice, why did the Lord let him choose? Listen up: God values our ability to decide above all else! From the Garden of Eden on, He lets us choose—even if we make the wrong choices!
When I realized this at an heart-believing, action-shaping level, I was free. Free from the temptation to push and pressure people to live their lives to do exactly as I would. Even God doesn’t do that! Gone was the burden of responsibility I used to carry, bemoaning the decisions of others. I got out of the business of debating, manipulating, and coercing others to believe. My previous passion was reminiscent of the Crusaders, minus a swinging sword.
Do I care? Of course I do! But the steam I once blew out of my stack in frustration over the unwise decisions of others now propels my prayers. I am less likely to be tied in knots, as I trust the Holy Spirit to “show the people of this world the truth about sin and God’s justice and judgment…” (John 16:8, CEV)
Assessing others’ choices chills relationships. Refuse to be Pinnochio’s Jiminy Cricket. Love people without pretending. Walk wisely. Give generously. Forgive easily. Pray faithfully. Sow the Word. Share when asked. Listen patiently. Answer humbly. Trust God completely.
“May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together--spirit, soul, and body--and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!” (1 Thessalonians 5: 24, The Message)
Amazing words, I think about this a lot. It was encouraging to read. Thank you!
wow what perfect timing. I needed this today.. Thank you! Janell E.