Day 15

Day 15 Through The Bible

Church Helps
January 15, 2025•2 min read

Day 15: The Creator's Knowledge and Human Choices

Biblical Principle
God, the Creator of all things, possesses infinite knowledge, including what people will become. However, this divine foreknowledge does not mean God forces individuals into certain behaviors or destinies. In Genesis 16:12-15, we read about Ishmael, the son of Hagar and Abram. God revealed Ishmael's future characteristics, describing him as a "wild man," someone whose actions would bring conflict. Yet, this wasn’t God preordaining Ishmael to such a life; instead, it reflected the choices Ishmael would make, choices known to God in His omniscience.

"And he will be a wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren." (Genesis 16:12)

God’s omniscience is a profound reminder of His sovereignty but also reinforces humanity's responsibility. Our choices, not God’s decree, shape our lives. Hagar’s response to God’s revelation was one of awe and reverence. She called the Lord "Thou God seest me" (Genesis 16:13), acknowledging His all-seeing, caring nature.

Practical Application
How can we live out the truth of God’s omniscience in our daily lives?

When we interact with others, it’s essential to remember that people’s outward actions reflect their inner state. As Jesus taught in Matthew 7:16-18:

"Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit."

What comes out of a person is determined by what resides within their heart. Evil actions stem from an unchanged, sinful heart. To see a transformation, there must be a change within—and this can only happen through God’s plan of salvation.

If we encounter someone whose actions are harmful or disruptive, we can reflect on God’s mercy. Instead of condemning them, we can pray for them and, where possible, share the hope of salvation. Transformation isn’t instant, but God’s Word assures us that a heart surrendered to Him will bear good fruit.

A Deliberate Purpose
As Christians, we should walk intentionally, reflecting God’s truth in everything we do. Just as God sees and knows us thoroughly, He has equipped us to recognize the fruit in others’ lives and respond with grace. Ishmael’s story reminds us that our choices matter and that God’s omniscience doesn’t override human responsibility.

Let’s strive to align our choices with God’s will and extend His grace to those around us, trusting that He sees and knows all things—even the hearts we cannot fully understand.

SovereignSovereigntyFree willGraceMercy
Evangelist Dan Woltmann grew up in the home of full time Christian school teachers. Saved at the tender age of 5, Dan surrendered to preach at the age of 14; he preached his first sermon at 16 to his youth group. He was privileged to meet and to learn from many pillars of fundamentalism and outstanding preachers. From these men he developed a strong conviction on the truth of God’s Word. Dan’s ministry experience is vast and varied. From starting four Christian service Bible clubs in college, to revitalizing churches and church ministries now for nearly 35 years. Direct one on one to ministry leaders as well as demostrating Biblical Worldview in the corporate world.

Dan Woltmann

Evangelist Dan Woltmann grew up in the home of full time Christian school teachers. Saved at the tender age of 5, Dan surrendered to preach at the age of 14; he preached his first sermon at 16 to his youth group. He was privileged to meet and to learn from many pillars of fundamentalism and outstanding preachers. From these men he developed a strong conviction on the truth of God’s Word. Dan’s ministry experience is vast and varied. From starting four Christian service Bible clubs in college, to revitalizing churches and church ministries now for nearly 35 years. Direct one on one to ministry leaders as well as demostrating Biblical Worldview in the corporate world.

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