Scripture to Read: Romans 9:19–24
In Romans 9:19–24, we read more questions about God and His right to choose as He pleases. In Romans 9:19, God had Paul lay out the question as if someone asked, “Why would God find any fault in anyone, for who can resist His perfect will?” Then, God had Paul answer in Romans 9:20–21, showing how disrespectful such a question is even to ask that of God. Who do we, as God’s creation, think we are to question God’s sovereign choices, plans, and purpose? God had Paul use the potter and the clay as an example to show how a potter has a right to mold the clay as the potter chooses. God the Creator has the absolute right to choose to work in our lives as He pleases. Romans 9:22–24 are similar to what God had Paul lay out in Romans 9:19–21. God wants us to see that He has every right to use lost people, like Pharaoh, who choose to live unrighteously (Ephesians 4:17–19) to show “the riches of His glory” on all those who surrender to Him. God gives His mercy, as we know, as He sees fit. Then, God had Paul return to share with the Jews, and us, that He has every right to show His mercy to the Gentiles according to His perfect will. Many Jews thought God would only choose them to be His vessels of honor because they were His chosen nation. Also, God does NOT “prepare” vessels for destruction; they choose destruction by refusing God (1 Peter 2:8).
Challenge & Application
Why do people think that God should be limited in His choices, but they believe they should be able to do whatever they like?
What did you learn about God today that you did not know before, and how will you share what you’ve learned with others?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!