October 19, 2023

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

“For who has known the mind of the Lord,
    or who has been his counselor?”
“Or who has given a gift to him
    that he might be repaid?”

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

 

Romans 11:33-36

Devotional

Paul concludes this chapter in poetic awe of God’s wisdom. This message is such an anthesis to how we walk through our daily lives.

 

We spend so much of our time trying to understand everything around us. “Clarity” has become a buzz word at different corporations as we seek to understand every angle of every decision in life. We are uncomfortable with not knowing everything. We are trained to seek knowledge about everything because we have computers and the internet at our fingertips. With one loud “Alexa” call my kids can get any answer to any homework question they can think of. It’s incredible and such a privilege.

 

However, because we have such access to knowledge, we assume we should know God on the same level. We want every answer clearly and precisely. But what if we were never meant to understand God and his judgments fully? What if we were meant to stand in awe of God’s love and wisdom for all His people instead?

 

Certainly, the Apostle Paul understood that we were not always meant to know. Quoting from the Torah again, Paul offers some universal wisdom about God, “How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out” (v. 33).

 

This chapter concludes by reminding us of the unfathomable depth of God’s plan and His unwavering faithfulness to fulfill His promises. For that, I am truly thankful.

For Reflection

Are there unanswered questions in your life that fill your mind?

 

How can you surrender those to the mystery of God’s love and will?

Prayer


God, we are grateful that we don’t need to have all the answers. Remind our hearts that not having all the answers is an acceptable way to navigate this world. Instead, help us to see the beauty in the unknown and the freedom in relinquishing control. Help assure our hearts and minds that even when we don’t understand, you do. Help us to know that you love us despite our uncertainty and trepidation.

 

Grant us peace and assurance this week. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Morgan Kennedy
Teaching & Learning Director
404-842-2170