Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - Mar/76

Contributor - Rev. Wm. Vankerkhoven

Title - When God Says No

Topic - Meditation

A little boy, growing up in his family, thought that he had everything going for him. He received a liberal allowance, he received more clothing than he needed and it was permissible for him to raid the cookie jar and fridge whenever he wanted to. In his life he developed a philosophy of getting for himself whatever he could from the world. Who this young lad became is not very surprising.

Adam and Eve, living in the garden of Eden, could eat of all but one of the fruit trees of the garden. They were living in paradise and above all in a healthy relationship to God their Creator. They had everything going for them. There was no need to ask for anything more or to have anything different from the way it was. But the fruit of the forbidden tree became so tempting and attractive to Adam and Eve, because it would make them wise, they took it. Here we see God saying no. They were to leave this fruit in the middle of the garden alone.

Today, there is plenty of fruit that tempts us. When we find ourselves in an emergency or unfair situation of Mr. Jones having more than we do, we are quickly tempted to use any means to 'get ahead'. We then have overlooked our blessings and our relationship to Jesus. As Adam and Eve were tempted, so we are tempted to consider our situation unfair, which leads us to live an illusionary life.

It has been said that using flattery on someone, can get many things done. What I am concerned about here is the effect this has on a person. For example, when one is asked to serve in an important position or is hired for an important work, glory, prestige and the feeling of I'm good where others are not so, can creep in very quickly. Then we tragically find ourselves in the same position of Saul in the Old Testament.

One way in which God shows His love to us is by saying no to ways of living which are contrary to His will. Christians need to exercise restraint and obey God in thankfulness. God has said a definite no to serving other gods, and asks us to positively serve Him alone.

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