July 18 - Divine Tensions

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 32-35; James 2

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

When it comes to judgment and mercy, faith and works,
God is not “either/or” but “both/and.” 

As humans with limited perspective we tend to be either/or. We see tensions in the Bible, like judgment and mercy, faith and works (all mentioned in our James reading today) and we choose up sides: judgment or mercy, faith or works. We divide the church into doctrinal camps and waste valuable time defending our bias and decrying those who disagree. Most of the time, if we would just open our minds, our hearts, and the whole Bible, we would hear God’s Spirit say, “Stop – You’re both right! It’s not either/or; it’s both/and.”

First we need to realize our limited understanding. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8,9). Second we need to be okay not knowing how two seemingly contrary positions can both be true.

We need to be able to read through the lengthy judgments of God against those who reject Him, and be content with the moments of mercy He shows to those who humbly accept Him. The sinners in Zion are terrified; trembling grips the godless: 'Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?' He who walks righteously and speaks what is right (33:14,15b).

We also need to know that we are saved by grace alone, not by works lest any should boast (Eph. 2:8,9). At the same time, we need to embrace the truth that faith in that grace is only made evident by our works. Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead (2:17).  Saying we believe is simply not enough. As James wisely points out, demons believe in God but you will never see them in heaven. So whether we read through Isaiah or James, God’s Word is clear, the redeemed are the same people as the righteous (35:8-10; 2:20-24).

“Lord, I am grateful for Your ‘both/and wisdom,’ that Your mercy triumphed over judgment (2:13) at Calvary and that my faith in that redeeming moment allows me to live righteously today and every day of my life with You!