Unless my parents promised something, which I would hold them to, they would say something like, “We might do that, but it’s not set in stone.” A lot of you may have heard that statement or even made it yourself. The term “set in stone” was made popular in the 18th century when people started making tombstones out of stone. This would then mark the grave of someone and their history was set in stone. Their walk on this earth was over and their lifetime was unchangeable. What was written, was written. What they had done had been done and what they didn’t do was not going to happen.
The people on this earth are not used to having things set in stone. We know the rules. We know the laws but we’re always making “allowances” due to our specific circumstances. We make contracts and immediately start figuring out how to get out of them. We create loopholes. I know my employer expects me to be here until 5:00, but it won’t hurt if I leave a few minutes early. Over the period of a year, how much time did you get paid for that you didn’t work if you did this 3 to 4 times a week? “Your royal laws cannot be changed. Your reign, O Lord, is holy forever and ever.” (Psalms 93:5 NLT) The first thing we notice about this statement is that it’s definitive. It states very clearly Who rules and reigns and it completely points out Who makes the rules. Do we have to adhere to this way of life? Of course not. We are free to do whatever we want.
The problem with the “free will” mindset is that we are human. We have flaws. If you don’t think you’re in that category, let me show you what the Bible says. “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23 NLT) In this scripture, the word “all” means “all”. Yes. That’s both you and I. We cannot live up to God’s ways. Try as we might, it’s not happening. The good news comes in the verse that follows. “Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” (Romans 3:24 NLT) Since the wages of sin is death, this is a very good thing to be free from.
You see, God’s Word is set in stone. It’s certain. This world wants to bend truths, change truths and even ignore truths. That can be done but God’s Promises are true. If they weren’t, we couldn’t count on Him. It’s for our very safety that we stand with the good Shepherd. Only by walking in His Truth are we protected from the devil’s plan. What is his plan, you might ask? Jesus said it best. “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:10 NLT) The enemy wants to steal your joy. He wants to kill your dreams and he wants to destroy your family. On the other hand, Jesus wants to give us an abundant life here on earth and in Heaven to come.
God does not change. This we can count on. He has to be reliable to be above human ways. He’s tried and true. There’s so much evidence throughout history to prove that statement. People will let you down but He never will. His love for you is set in stone.
Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.
