I criticized a book recently in one of my reviews because the author said someone was the master of their own destiny. The Bible teaches us that God is in control, and we are not. However, I discovered this quote today that reminds us that we are in control of one thing — our attitude and how we respond to the things that happen to us.
“It is a proverbial saying, that everyone makes his own destiny; and this is usually interpreted, that every one, by his wise or unwise conduct, prepares good or evil for himself: but we may also understand it, that whatever it be that he receives from the hand of Providence, he may so accommodate himself to it, that he will find his lot good for him, however much may seem to others to be wanting.” Wm. Von Humboldt (Prussian philosopher)
Jesus tells us that we will have problems. The world is infected by sin, and so are we. We can never be good enough or wise enough to avoid the consequences. Nothing will keep us safe. However, we can have contentment when we place our trust in Him.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
He has our ultimate good at heart.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Elisabeth Elliot, a missionary who went to live with the same Ecuadorian tribe who killed her husband had this to say about our destiny:
“I found peace in the knowledge that I was in the hands of God. Not in the confidence that I was not going to be killed. Not in the false sense of security that God would protect me, any more than He protected my husband, the four missionaries, or Honoria (a man who was speared) from the wooden lances. Simply in knowing that He held my destiny in His two hands what He did was right.”
Expect trouble– and when it comes, don’t trust yourself, trust the one who made you. He is the master of your destiny.