Pro Choice

(Proverbs 1:24 KJV)  Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;

God has “called” (7121).  This could be the eternal picture of God, always reaching out and being rejected.  In verse 28 we will see that God runs out of patience.  He rejects those who turn to Him only because things have gone bad.

People have “refused” (3985) His call.  I believe that everyone has a chance to move toward God and make repeated decisions on which way they will go.  It may not be choices at the level of responding to a clear proclamation of the gospel.  It may just be a simple decision to lie for personal benefit or steal on the spur of the moment.  At the time the person knows it is wrong but makes a decision that moves them away from God.  Later they may claim ignorance but there was still a decision on their part, a refusal to do the right.

When it comes down to it, there is little you can do to get other people to respond to the call of God.  If there is, you are probably already doing it.  Don’t beat yourself up for the choices of others.  The key question is, “What about you?”

So?  Just a quick check.  Have you responded or refused?  Only you can answer that.  Only you can change it.  May you life be full of response and void of refusal.