“Firing God”

In an episode of the long-running TV series “Touched by an Angel” Monica (the angel who appears in human form) was talking with a man who was grieving over the loss of his wife and questioning God’s existence. During their conversation Monica told him, “You can’t fire God.” Is this true? Well, yes and no. But before I’m accused of waffling let me explain.

The Bible teaches that God is the Sovereign Ruler over the universe (“…the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.”—Deuteronomy 4:39) and He can’t be removed from His rightful position. Satan’s attempt to stage a coup was answered by God’s driving him from His presence (Isaiah 14:12-15). If the greatest of God’s angels couldn’t fire Him from His position how can any of us?

We can, however, fire Him as Master of our lives because who or what controls us is a matter of personal choice. Jesus warned of this possibility by saying, “No one can serve two masters.” (Matthew 6:24). Both Joshua and Elijah challenged Israel to choose between God and idols because the people couldn’t give allegiance to both. Under these godly leaders the false gods were fired, but one of the tragedies of Old Testament history is that soon after they passed from the scene the nation fired God, rehired the idols, and it never fully recovered.

Have you and I fired God by saying no to Him and going our own way? If so, has it worked? I know it hasn’t for me and chances are it hasn’t for you either! Should this be surprising? Let God speak: “…The way of the unfaithful is hard.” (Proverbs 13:15). But we can hire Him back by turning ourselves over to His direction for our lives. Let’s never forget, “…His way (not ours) is perfect.” (Psalm 18:30).

Blessings!

Jim McMillan