Feb 15

If anyone should ever doubt that God has decreed that it is impossible to know him through the use of human reasoning, that person should be directed to read the words of 1 Cor. 1:21:

"In the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him . . ."

Why has God done this, hidden himself from discovery by the use of our intellect? Because if he did not, then only the most brilliant minds would have any chance of coming to know God -- and then they no doubt would boast of their great achievement. But as it is, God has hidden himself from those who seek him in this way, so that no one can boast in this manner (1 Cor. 1:29).

We cannot find God through the use of our intellect; he must reveal himself to us. What we cannot find, he simply reveals. Then the glory goes to him and not to us.

"Therefore, as it is written: 'Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.'" (v. 31).

That is why Paul begins the second chapter explicitly declaring that he does not come to them with eloquent or superior wisdom -- because there is none among humans. His boast is in the Lord, not in himself. All of us who speak to others about God need to remember this -- including those of us who write devotions.

Scripture for today: 1 Cor. 1: 20-31
Thought for today: The wise man knows God--but this wisdom comes from God. The wise man, therefore, asks God for it.
Prayer for today: Lord, I do ask you for the wisdom that comes down from above. I want to know you. Reveal yourself to me, I pray.

FEB 15