Israel has experienced a hardening. (Rom. 11:25)
Expanded Passage: Romans 11:25-27
Ever hear the exclamation, “It’s hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk”? It’s not an expression you are likely to hear this time of year.
However, in the hottest part of the summer, you might try putting a lump of clay and an ice cube on a scorching hot sidewalk. You will likely find two opposite things happening. The clay hardens while the ice cube melts.
Why the different response? The sun beating down on the two objects is the same. The sidewalk is the same. But the properties of the clay and ice make the difference.
In the lives of two people, the response to God’s mercy and grace may be different. He is the same God, and his Word has not changed. But people’s responses are different.
Although some people in Old Testament times responded positively to the Lord’s invitation to follow him and obey his commands, others “experienced a hardening.” Instead of being soft and pliable in the Lord’s hands, they hardened their hearts.
Throughout history many people have responded so positively to the Lord and used their lives to make a difference for his kingdom, that they have been dubbed “saints.” Today is All Saints’ Day, a time on the church calendar for honoring “all saints.” Their example can inspire us to walk in obedience to the Lord.
Instead of hardening your heart, become pliable in the Lord’s hands.
Ron McClung is a retired minister in The Wesleyan Church. He lives in Michigan and has two sons, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
