“Clearly one of the most staggering, humbling, and profound teachings in all Scripture is that God simply does not need the world that he has made and that he rules, and included in this, he does not need any of us, his human creation (Acts 17:24-25). Whereas our need for him is absolute, his need for us is nonexistent. Living ‘Coram Deo’ cannot get off the ground unless we start here.” Bruce A. Ware, God’s Greater Glory, Crossway Books: Wheaton, Illinois, 2004. p.183. Many of you or your children of course, have probably seen the movie “Spirit,” Stallion of the Cimarron, a 2002 Disney animated movie. This movie was unique and enchanting. I personally loved it! The music, which included songs by Brian Adams, blended uniquely with the animation and story line. Albeit a wonderful movie, I wish to use it as an illustration. The movie is the quintessence of the free-spirited and independent nature and characteristics of our society. Indeed, the movie captures the very essence of wandering free, independently with no restraints, captain, or authority. The movies name, in fact, also reflects the core idea by the name “Spirit” since the word has the connotation of freedom. Our culture has become enamored by total independence, individuality, and “free-agency” (a term I will borrow from the world of sports). This of course carries over into the lack of relationship with God the culture dismisses easily. No one wants to be repressed, held-up, or bound by anything especially God. The whole purpose in Bruce Ware’s paragraph above is to point to the fundamental basic that if we are to truly begin having a relationship with God and His Son, we must acknowledge and submit to the truth that God does not need you and that you certainly need Him. Individuality and independence in relation to God is like oil and water, they don’t mix together! We are not to live our lives like practical atheists. In other words, our lives whether we like it or not is sustained by God (Col 1:15-20). The unbeliever may staunchly declare his independence from God (mimicking his parents Adam and Eve) but ultimately he is not in control of his eternal destiny unless he/she gives his life to the Lord then their lives will change dramatically. My friend, do you find yourself living life totally independent of God? Dear Child, know that there are consequences to the “Spirit” movie idea. You must live your life “coram Deo” (living life before God). This you must do! You are not ultimately in charge of your own life-career (free-agency). Let God be in charge! Follow Him! Let Him be your Captain.
Pastor Jim Cater
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