Several years ago, I heard a song called “No Robots” by The Arrows. I am pretty eclectic when it comes to my taste in music as I appreciate the diversity of styles and musical expressions.  With this song in particular, the lyrics drew me in.  Before I say another word about it, I wanted to give you an opportunity to listen first.  Check out this YouTube clip of The Arrows performing the song.  Make sure to really pay attention to what they are saying.

So what did you think? What stood out to you the most?  If I were to answer those questions I would say I was reminded of the reality that God gives us the choice whether we choose Him or not.  I do want to acknowledge that this discussion can go in a plethora of directions based on your own theological perspectives.  Free will is one of those topics that is constantly debated but I am not here for mental gymnastics. I believe the words in the song are accurately expressing God’s desire for us to love Him. This is not a one sided relationship. (See 1 John 4:9-11; 18-19)

My church recently launched our season of K’Nex Groups.  These are small groups that meet once a week.  This time around, we are going through a ten-week devotional. I LOVE small groups. When I first moved to LA, my small group played an integral role in my healing and restoration.  It is beautiful to be a part of community where you are loved and supported.  I do not take it for granted.  During our most recent session, we discussed how God created the heavens, the Earth and us. This is often referred to as the Creation Story. 

At the risk of you judging me, I am going to share with you what I said to my group. We know God created Adam and Eve and deemed them to be “very good.”  He gave them a lavish Garden to live in and they had a close relationship with God.  He also placed a tree in the Garden and told them they were not supposed to eat its fruit.  In spite of God’s instruction, the long and short of it is they ate from the tree.  My question has always been, “Why would God put the tree in the Garden if He knew they were going to eat from it?!”  After sharing my frustration with the group, I was presented with a different viewpoint that really helped me to make sense of it in my mind.  It was a matter of putting all the puzzle pieces together.  God created us to be rational beings with the ability to make choices.  The presence of the tree in the Garden solidified this notion.  If God wanted to, He could have made us robots with no reasoning or problem solving skills.  But He didn’t. No Robots here. We have the aptitude to decide.  God created us in His image so it makes perfect sense!

Even more, I am amazed the God of the universe would desire to have a personal, intimate, loving relationship with me.  When He created me, He was intentional. He had a clear plan.  He placed a unique gift and purpose inside of me. What a thought!  

How precious are your thoughts about me,

Oh God, they cannot be numbered!

I can’t even count them;

They outnumber the grains of the sand!

And when I wake up,

You are still with me.

Psalm 139:17-18

Until Next Time,

Live Audaciously!

Kay Naomi