Monday, February 16, 2009

Thoughts on Romans 9:19-21 (click here for NET Bible)

I am so humbled by these verses. There are times when I criticize God for how things are going. I'm not asking honest questions. I am irritated (aka angry) at how my day is going or some "stupid" thing someone else did. What right do I have to criticize God?

Paul clearly answers that I have no right. I am clay in the Potter's hands. God has every right to do as He wishes. He is sovereign. Who am I - a mere human being - to talk back to God? A mere piece of clay. A finite, frail and foolish person.

Paul is giving a loose quote from Isaiah 45:9. It is interesting that Isaiah included a stern warning for those who persistently blame God and criticize Him for their troubles.

“Destruction is certain for those who argue with their Creator. Does a clay pot ever argue with its maker? Does the clay dispute with the one who shapes it, saying, ‘Stop, you are doing it wrong!’ Does the pot exclaim, ‘How clumsy can you be!’" (Isaiah 45:9 NLT)

Lord Jesus, I humbly acknowledge Your sovereign right to do as You please. I have confidence in Your skill to use all circumstances for my good and Your glory.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Thank you Pastor Bob for your insights.

I read recently that when Isaiah died, he may have been one of those whom Hebrews 11 refers to as having been "sawn in two".

If so, I'm sure the potter/clay attitude helped him get through it to cause him to be listed in the "hall of faith".

When our own trials come (which undoubtedly pale in comparison to Isaiah's) we need to guard against an entitlement attitude, don't we!