So often we are told there is only one way to achieve something. One way to weight loss. One way to the perfect job. One way to live as a Christian. One way to salvation.
It is simpler to think life is a straight path. It is simpler to look at scripture and try to deduce it to only one way. Careful examination shows us that God is bigger than that just look at Paul formally called Saul.
3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:3-6 NIV).
Saul (Paul), was perfectly happy persecuting those who followed Jesus. He wasn’t looking for a different way. He was protecting people from going the wrong way. God chose him anyway. He received the gift of the Holy Spirit, anyway.
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kingsand to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 9:15-17 NIV).
I like simple straightforward paths. I like having the right answer, the only answer. God is bigger than the limits I try to put on Him. God’s purposes are larger and more expansive than I can imagine. Whenever I try to claim what is “right”, God shows me there is more. Jesus is the only constant.
Do you prefer the “only one way,” route? Do you look for the alternate way? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.