What is fate?
The dictionary describes fate as an “inevitable and often adverse outcome, condition, or end,” “the circumstances that befall someone or something,” or simply, “final outcome.” Fate is a word that gets thrown around when facing a negative conclusion. In fact, my friend and I often make this statement when discussing such things: “Lord, spare me this fate.” For example, when someone is behaving in an ungodly manner and we understand our own potential to head there… “Lord, spare me this fate.”
Not all adverse outcomes, however, are the result of ungodly behavior. My mother was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and I have found myself pleading with the Lord to spare me this fate. The thing is, God has already ordained my steps. His specific plans for me are “formed of old, faithful and sure” (Isaiah 25:1). They were written before the world was founded.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him… (Ephesians 1:3,4)
So why bother praying about such things? Well, God’s plan for my life includes prayer. I am commanded to be in fellowship with my Creator. I am called to pray. Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Prayer is not an option for my life as a follower of Jesus Christ; it is a lifeline. Prayer is a place of sweet communion, established by God, orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, and satisfied through Christ. Prayer changes me.
As I plead for my fate, I lay down my will and pursue His instead. In other words, I surrender. In a culture that says, “never surrender,” I gladly wave the white flag, understanding my Savior knows best for me. The waving of that flag isn’t passive. No, it’s incredibly active. It’s calloused knees from kneeling and tired bones from a good and faithful fight. Am I stewarding my body well? Am I doing my part to prevent cognitive decline? Fight. Pray. “Lord, spare me this fate.”
It’s a beautiful duet we sing. I work and pray. God ordains and answers. I surrender. He is glorified. This is the very reason for my existence: His glory. “Lord, grant me THIS fate.”
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