Probabilities and Possibilities

“Looking at them, Jesus said, ‘With man it is impossible, but not with God, because all things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27)

The words Jesus spoke above were in the context of salvation. He spoke them after the encounter with the “rich young ruler,” and after stating that it would be hard for those with wealth to enter the kingdom of God. The disciples, of course, were stunned. There question in response was, “Well, who then can be saved?”

When Jesus said it would be hard for those with wealth to enter the kingdom of God, He did not say it was impossible. He was speaking more of probabilities. He was not demeaning wealth per se, but was rather stating the obvious: many who have great wealth rely on their wealth as their god. The great probability is that those who do so will not turn to the Lord and confess Him as their God.

After World War II, many Japanese came to faith in Jesus, and that trend continued until Japan regained its influence and its affluence. Materialism became the god of many after that. In fact, one real estate broker stated, “I used to need God, but now I have ‘graduated.’”

Just as there are probabilities, there are also possibilities. Jesus communicated hope and faith and understanding that with God all things are possible. Anyone, regardless of status or wealth, and turn from sin and to the Lord to receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God and eternal life. Our God is the God of the possible.

Whatever may seem impossible to you is not impossible for God. Therefore, we pray, and then we trust. Faith is not us convincing God. Faith is us asking and then trusting.

Lord, Thank You for reminding us today that nothing is beyond Your ability. We trust You for the impossible. We trust Your will. Amen.