No one, not even the unredeemed, are ultimately outside the will of God (Pr. 16:4; Rom. 9:14-18; 1 Pet. 2:7-8). They are not forced to be lost, but choosing to reject God’s offer of mercy does not somehow free them from the control of God. Even their rejection has been included in the eternal plan of God. This is perhaps the worst part of it for them. In their attempt to be free from God by rejecting Him, even if at the cost of their own souls, they find that there is no such thing. The net of God’s providence includes even the vain attempt to be outside the net.
— Walter Elwell (1937–2025), Theologe, Neutestamentler und Herausgeber theologischer Nachschlagewerke
Related Bible passage: PRO.16.4
Topics: God, Jesus & the Holy Spirit, Guidance & God's Will, Wisdom & Understanding
Occasions: For Reflection
All quotes by Walter Elwell (3)
You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.
Augustine of Hippo
Jesus calls us not to a new religion, but to life.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I would not be able to seek you if you had not already found me.
Augustine of Hippo
When you see a child, you catch God in the act.
Martin Luther
God does not love us because we are lovable, but because his nature is love.
Oswald Chambers
God seeks you more than your offering.
Augustine of Hippo
God has his ear at your heart.
Augustine of Hippo
God is closer to us than we are to ourselves.
Augustine of Hippo