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)
