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)
