(continued from last post)
Consequences: But at the same time, I think we can abuse the privileges of this life. We can willfully be reckless, ingest harmful substances that disorient us and take away our freedom, do stupid things. I think we have a responsibility to choose wisely with the knowledge and information we have been given.
I don't believe God will take away the consequences of my willful choices -- he's not going to magically erase the effects of too many trips to McDonald's and the laziness that keeps me from the morning jog. I know how to take care of my body, and if I end up with heart disease or diabetes, I know whose fault it will be. If I choose to drive with a heavy foot, I then choose the possibility of an ugly accident or a speeding ticket. If I choose mind-altering drugs, then I also choose the possibility of having someone take advantage of me or act in some way that will harm others. If I choose to treat someone with ugliness, then I also choose the quality of that relationship, if there's one left. One of God's greatest gifts to us was our having the ability to choose, and He's not going to interfere with the consequences of those choices. Some of us have to learn by the School of Hard Knocks, and life is a wonderful teacher. God will not take those teaching moments away, no matter how difficult.
The God I worship respects my choices and let's me live with the consequences-- not as a punishment, but as a learning tool.
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