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Love and Prayer
Is Our Destiny Already Written?

Is Our Destiny Already Written?

4 min readPastor West

The question of what fate is has been discussed by many. Different beliefs exist regarding this concept. Some believe that fate determines our lives, while others say that our actions are based on fate. Many believe that our paths are predetermined, our destiny has been written, is an integral part of our existence, and cannot be changed. At the same time, others believe that we do things out of our own choice. But, does free will really exist, or are our choices controlled by a higher power?

Fate and destiny are often used interchangeably; however, they have different meanings. Fate determines the course of events, while destiny is a future event that cannot be determined by decisions someone will make.

In the Bible, we read about God and how He determines the outcome of events. In the Hindu faith, fate is a divine force that guides our actions. And, sometimes, our actions won’t change our future or fate. For example, if a person is born blind, they can do nothing to change that; however, they can choose to thrive and live a happy, healthy, and abundant life. 

Our lives are affected by many situations outside of our control; we can’t do anything about them; the only thing we can do is either accept our situation and do something about it or let it destroy us. But, despite what people say, one thing is clear; our future is built by every action and every decision we make simply because every action has a consequence. Whether a higher power is intervening in our decision-making or we are entirely in control of our free will, we may never know for sure. However, the outcome of our decisions still binds us. Therefore, whatever we are doing at this very moment will have an impact on our future.

Live a good life, be kind and love each other. 


Embracing the Mystery: Finding Freedom in Surrender

As we navigate the complex interplay between fate and free will, it's natural to feel a sense of uncertainty or even anxiety about the future. We may wonder if our choices truly matter or if the course of our lives is already set. However, as we seek to deepen our faith and grow spiritually, we're invited to consider a different perspective – one that acknowledges the mystery of God's sovereignty while also embracing our role as active participants in our lives. In Jeremiah 29:11, we're reminded that God has a plan to prosper us, not to harm us, and to give us hope and a future. This promise encourages us to trust in His goodness, even when the path ahead is unclear.

So, how can we find freedom in surrender? It begins by acknowledging that we don't have to have all the answers. We can release our need for control and instead, choose to trust in God's loving guidance. This doesn't mean that we're passive or complacent; rather, it means that we're intentional about seeking His wisdom and guidance as we make decisions. As we pray and seek His will, we can be confident that He's working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). This perspective allows us to approach life with a sense of curiosity and openness, rather than fear or rigidity.

As you reflect on your own life and journey, consider how you can cultivate a deeper sense of trust and surrender. Take time to pray and seek God's guidance, and be willing to listen for His still, small voice. Remember that spiritual growth is a process, and it's okay to take things one step at a time. By embracing the mystery and finding freedom in surrender, you can experience a deeper sense of peace and confidence, even in the midst of uncertainty. As you look to the future, may you be encouraged by the words of Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Does the Bible support the idea of predestination or free will?

The Bible presents a complex interplay between God's sovereignty and human freedom. While some passages suggest predestination (Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 1:4-5), others emphasize human responsibility and free will (Joshua 24:15, Philippians 2:12-13). Ultimately, the Bible encourages us to trust in God's goodness and wisdom while actively participating in our own spiritual growth and decision-making.

Q:How do I balance trusting in God's plan with taking action towards my goals?

The Bible encourages us to 'cast our cares' on God (1 Peter 5:7) while also being 'doers of the word' (James 1:22). By surrendering our plans to God and seeking His guidance, we can align our actions with His will and take intentional steps towards our goals. This balance allows us to trust in God's sovereignty while still being active participants in our lives.

Q:Can people from different faith backgrounds find common ground on the topic of fate and free will?

While different faith traditions may have varying perspectives on fate and free will, many share a common concern with living a virtuous and meaningful life. By engaging in respectful dialogue and exploring our shared values, we can build bridges of understanding and foster a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experience. This openness can lead to greater empathy, compassion, and cooperation across cultural and spiritual divides.

Q:How can I cultivate a sense of purpose and direction in my life?

Discovering your purpose and direction can involve reflecting on your values, passions, and strengths, as well as seeking guidance from God and others. By cultivating a sense of gratitude, practicing mindfulness, and taking small steps towards your goals, you can begin to uncover your unique path and live a more intentional, fulfilling life. Remember that your journey is unique, and it's okay to take your time and seek support along the way.