In the last blog we discussed the theology of the ‘open door’ and how it relies on an unbiblical set of thinking in order to make decisions. The dangers of this methodology are widespread.
First, such thinking relies almost solely on circumstantial experiences in order to make decisions. In other words, if the circumstances line up in a certain way, that must be God’s will for a decision. This, however, is subtle form of atheism. Rather than trusting the Lord for direction and timing, we can begin to take matters into our own hands, seeking to read into circumstances for direction from God.
Think, for example, of Saul, who offered sacrifices because Samuel had not arrived in the expected time (1 Samuel 13:11-12). He explains to Samuel that the circumstances were bleak, and so he ‘forced himself’ to offer the sacrifices. His act is condemned by Samuel as rebellion.
David, on the contrary, while already anointed king by Samuel in his youth, pauses when he hears that Saul has been killed. Instead of simply going to Hebron to be crowned king, he ‘inquired of the Lord’ (2 Samuel 2:1). This act is one of submission to God and His will, unlike Saul.
Worshipping idols
When we allow circumstantial evidence to govern our decisions, we can also find ourselves worshipping idols in our hearts. When our hearts are holding tightly to some outcome, it is easy to see the circumstances lining up in favor of that thing. This can serve to blind us to the will of God because we have begun to worship the outcome, rather than worshipping God and trusting Him for the best outcome.
The easiest way to identify this type of idolatry in the heart is to ask ourselves a simple question. Consider a situation where there are two choices in front of me, and my heart is leaning one direction and it appears that circumstances are lining up that way.
I can simply ask myself the question, “Would I be just as happy if that outcome were not God’s will?”, or, “Could I still joyfully worship God if His will was the opposite of what it appears to be at this moment?”
If I find that the answer to that question is a ‘no’, I am worshipping the outcome of that decision rather than God. This is an idol that will eventually result in sorrow for me!
