Posted by GIT on September 4, 2011, 2:07 pm, in reply to "Re: Absolute Truth?"
Everyone has their beliefs which they feel very strongly about, and it's obvious that nobody can change them.
No one can change anyone elses heart, only God is in the business of changing hearts and I appreciate this statement. That means that I understand that I cannot save anyone, as a few have accused me of trying to do. This place being what it is - that is what folks do here - we discuss things.
My question: If God has a plan for us, why in the Hell doesn't he just tell us? He certainly has that ability. If my parents wanted me to do something, they would tell me to do it - they wouldn't have someone else come and tell me what they want me to do. (Hey, Bob, your dad told me to tell you that you should give me money.)
God does tell us. He speaks to us in many ways - never audibly - at least not in my experience. Mostly today, it is through reading His Word and spending time with Him and in quiet reflection - speaking with Him through prayer.
The thing is, in any relationship - the way you get to know someone is to spend time with them. The time you spend affords you their character and those things they think and would do in a situation.
God also does put desires in our heart - they are not to be confused with personal desires that may lead to harm for ourselves or others. They would be those things we are naturally bent to do. Placement in the world, no matter who you are, Christian or not - in regards to personal skill and knowledge - is God ordained and given. Now we can certainly use that skill to the detriment of God and we often do, that does not change the fact that it was given by Him.
I hope that answers your question. We can't know what He expects without knowing Him and seeking His guidance over our own desires. He won't give us a quick fix, if He did, it would kill us instantly. To know all things and to know in an instant how desperately wicked we really are - would crush us. Instead it is a slow process, letting us in a little at time - showing us things slowly and repeatedly in His grace. We know the truth of many things before we really know it and that is Him in His love.
Thank you for your respect and discussion in this area, even though you disagree.