Never Revoked

Never Revoked

God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.]

Romans 11:29 (AMP)

Even though the percentage is small, there are those who leave the Amish. The culture shock can be hard. All they’ve been raised to believe comes under assault. Those who choose to leave must weigh every value as they decide what to hold on to and what to discard. They now dress differently; they must think differently too. Yet no matter what age they are when they leave, or how long they are gone, the foundation of being Amish is with them for life. They will continue to view much in the world through the Amish frame of reference.

It’s the same for those whom God has loved and called. Romans 11:28 says, “From the point of view of the Gospel (good news), they [the Jews, at present] are enemies [of God], which is for your advantage and benefit. But from the point of view of God’s choice (of election, of divine selection), they are still the beloved (dear to Him) for the sake of their forefathers” (AMP).

Former Amish may live completely different lives from those they were raised in, but for the Amish who love them and care about them, the calling to be Amish is never revoked. Those who choose to leave could return at any time if they were willing to submit to the Ordnung, the church, and the community.

If the Amish can believe—and depend on—such grace, how much more can we as children of God? Do you feel far from God today? Realize that your point of view may have changed, but God’s never does. He is never further away than a heartbeat. Do you know someone who feels rejected by God? The best way for that person to understand God’s love and grace just might be for you to fully extend your love and grace first, praying that these will point the other person toward the Eternal One.

Dear heavenly Father, I thank You that I am forever Yours. Help me to understand that deep in my heart. And may the way I view everything in my life change because of Your amazing grace.