The Lord of the IS

02/04/2011
International College of Behavioral Counselling
Web site: wilfkent.org - Email: wilfkent@wilfkent.com - Blog: www.wilfkent.blogspot.com

The Lord Of The IS

“It is what it is until it is no more and then no one will know what it is!” The “is” problem was addressed by David Hume, a Scottish philosopher (1711-1776). He noted that many make claims about what ought to be on the basis of statements about what it is.There is a huge gap between our idea of how things ought to be and what actually “is”. The first is based on our world view, religious conviction, personal preferences, upbringing, attitude and disposition. It structures our world as we would like it to be. The later is based upon fact. Reality cannot be denied. Regardless of how we would like it to be, it is what it is! When it is no more, we will not know why it is! Is this a depressing reality? Not really!

Because we live in a cursed world with a depraved nature under control of the evil one, we are continually being vexed by the chaos and disorder that “is”. Abraham’s nephew chose to live in Sodom and Gomorrah. He was daily tormented by his circumstances and sought to change them. His influence however was marginal at best. Even his sons-in-law ridiculed him when he warned them of coming doom.

It is important to change the things we can. If we“…are the salt of the earth, the light of the world and a city that is set on a hill that cannot be hid (Matthew 5:13-14) then the logical conclusion is that our circumstances are under our control. In most cases they are. We think that if we could muster a bit more faith, give a little more to the church, study the Word more faithfully, pray a little harder and get rid of some of our destructive habits, God would be pleased with us. Surely then He would help us change what it “is” that torments us. All this effort is noble but there are things we cannot change. Furthermore, except the LORD build the house, they labor do so in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman wakes but in vain. (Psalms 127:1)

The Good News is that our God whom we serve is the Lord of the “is”. He is present in every circumstance and we gain our strength from that fact. Our peace and happiness does not come with the changing of the “is”. It comes from the knowledge of His presence. Remember that “nothing err by chance befalls to those whom God in purpose calls!” He is never surprised by what “is” and is never thwarted in His intended purposes. He will never leave us or forsake us and He is well able to deliver us from every trial. Lot found this to be true. God … rescued Lot, a good man, who was distressed by the immoral conduct of lawless people. That good man lived among them, and day after day he suffered agony as he saw and heard their evil actions. And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials …. (2 Peter 2:7-9) God is the Lord of whatever “is” and He … is able to keep you from falling and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy… (Jude 1:24)

Perhaps we give too much importance to our disappointments and trials. Take comfort in the fact that in all things God is at work for your good. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12-13)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

WOW These are WordsOfWisdom we can live by!