Here lies the tremendous mystery –
that God should be all-powerful yet refuse to coerce.
He summons us to cooperation.
We are honored in being given the opportunity to participate in his good deeds.
Remember how He asked for help in performing his miracles:
Fill the water pots, [1]
stretch out your hand, [2]
distribute the loaves. [3]
Elisabeth Elliot
***
I find myself wondering if the need would have been met without their cooperation. I believe it would have been, because that is who He is. But they would have missed out on the experience and the blessing.
Now I wonder how many opportunities to cooperate I have missed. Are the tears He wipes away in heaven our failures and regrets?