I find it hard to do things halfway. I know my reasons for being intense vary. I grew up in a home where my parents, especially my dad, rarely did things casually. His approach was open throttle, go for the win, letting things hang out, and be just a bit crazy. Even when things did not work, the second try brought something to life that was bigger, better, and stronger. An early lesson was that every individual could do whatever they choose to do; one just needs to decide.
It is the choice that it crucial with God. God offers us the world and beyond. He gives us the opportunity to step into a relationship that will not only change our lives today but will open the door for an eternity of exploring, experimenting, and experience. The mystery of this gift and His power is that He will never force our acceptance. The complete reasons behind this defy my understanding – I find it hard to accept that He just loves us totally, unconditionally, and completely – but that is the simple and powerful truth. No matter what we have done, are doing, or will do, we have a choice. We can be anything with God! With God, everything is awesome.
For me, the first lesson set up the potential for the second. I did not know, but now believe, that God hates the casual believer – you know the type: one who could take or leave it. God is not looking for people who are on the fence, who are not completely sure where they stand with God. God wants to get on with things! God wants to do things – in your life, in mine, and in the lives of those around us. Being neutral just does not cut it! Take a position, make a choice, and get on with life!
This takes perseverance. I ask one thing. “Pray strenuously with and for me – to God the Father, through the power of our Master Jesus, through the love of the Spirit.” (Romans 15.31)
