In the heat of the American Civil War, one
of President Lincoln’s advisors said he was grateful that God was on the side
of the Union. Lincoln replied, “Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our
side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.”
What a great challenge for us who assume
that God is there to support our plans, our perspectives, our decisions, and
our desires. However, Lincoln’s reply reminds us that even our best plans may
not be near to what God desires.
Clearly the psalmist wants to be on God’s
side when he pleads, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; . . . and see if
there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Ps.
139:23-24). When we follow the psalmist’s example to “draw near to God”
(73:28), we can be certain that we are on His side, as His Spirit helps us
measure every thought and action by His ways that are always right.
So, let’s ask ourselves: Are we on the
Lord’s side? Being on His side means that we will reflect His love to the world
around us in the way we interact with others. We will forgive, treat others
justly, and seek peace.
God’s ways are always best.(RBC)
