Belief in Evolution
Evolution is great! Whoa! Did I just say “evolution?” Now before you jump to any conclusions, when I say evolution, I'm mostly referring to the gradual process of growth and development, not the scientific theory that life came from a single cell or that all species are related. I guess I could've used a less controversial word like change but I think evolution is a good way to describe the process. I can see it in the plants in our yard as they grow over time. I can see it in my children as they mature physically and emotionally. I see it in the Rams as they get better during the playoffs (sorry, I just watched the Rams beat the Buccaneers on a last-second field goal).
Recently, I read a devotional that made me think about how my view of God has evolved over time. It was an interesting topic because it's not something I had thought much about. Have you ever thought about how your view of the Lord has changed? Early in my Christian faith, I saw God as a strong authority figure who commanded my worship and wanted to change the way I lived and thought. While that is still true, my view of God has changed significantly over time. I still view God as a strong authority figure but now I also see Him as a God of relationship and compassion. One who I can talk to and will empathize with what I'm going through. I believe God commands my worship. He is holy and sovereign but I also understand that He wants what's best for me. He draws me into worship, into His presence and into a place of blessing. Finally, yes He wants to change my thoughts and actions because I still struggle with sin and disobedience. But more importantly, I see that He wants to change my heart and make me more like Him, not just modify my behavior.
The Bible tells us that God is holy, consistent, and immutable, which means He doesn't change. Hebrews 13:8 says "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." That means that all these great things I've learned about God over the years is not because He's changed. He's always been like this and always will be. It's because I've changed and I know Him better. I'm sure the same is true for you as well. God wants to continue to change us and our understanding of Him through worship, scripture, and prayer. The more we know about God and His unchanging character, the stronger our relationship with Him will be. Keep growing and changing! This type of evolution is good!
Pastor Darren
