Paul wrote about “God, who cannot lie” (Titus 1:2).
Cannot.
In English, “cannot” often implies some kind of outward restraint. “I’d like to, but I can’t.” Unable, but not unwilling.
That’s not how God works. It’s not like God is honor-bound to speak the truth, but constantly wishing He could slip in a little deception. He cannot lie for one simple reason:
Because He will not lie.
That’s His character. That’s who He is.
In English, “will not” is about our intentions. “I will not do this” doesn’t always mean “I will never do this,” and it’s not even a guarantee that we won’t change our minds before it’s all said and done.
That’s not how God works either. He isn’t fickle and capricious; His character is dependable and unchanging. He is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
With God, a “cannot” is a “will not,” and a “will not” is a “cannot.” They’re the same thing. God abides by His perfect set of standards—He cannot go against them because He will not go against them.
Imagine having character so firm, so unshakable, that others could write about your “will nots” as “cannots.” Imagine someone gesturing to you and saying, “Oh, her? No, she can’t lie,” or, “Oh, him? Yeah, he can’t envy.” Not won’t, but can’t. Unable because you’re unwilling. No room for discussion or exceptions. Fixed. Immovable. Dependable.
You and I both know you’re not there. Not yet. None of us are. But it’s the direction we’re heading: “We know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
We serve a God who cannot because He will not.
Every day is an opportunity to be a little more like Him.
Jeremy, this involves some deep thinking. In the past I was amazed at this statement but as I get older I realize there is good reason to not lie or do any other sin . . . the results are so hurtful and destructive. He truly has the big picture in mind. Sometimes I feel I am myopic or short-sighted because old habits (sins) take place so fast when I should be slowing down and considering the big picture . . . what will the result of this action/word/thought be? I am looking forward to 1 John 3:2. Thanks for sharing Sabbath Thoughts with us.
All good points. Human nature can be such a bear! Looking forward to the time when we’re past all that 🙂
Thank you for your willingness to share your Sabbath thoughts with us! This is a form of fellowship!
It is not the will of goG that any perish, nut all may recirec eternal life. Jesus daid, i hzve lost none…
Thanks Jeremy for the very insightful and inspiring topic. I’d like the three words put together; Fixed. Immovable. Dependable. When we’re firm at some of our decisions, we feel achieved that we were unshakable/Immovable and it prods us to do more, though we need be careful too.
Great points Jeremy! We all need to ask God to help us develop the courage to be honest with others and especially with ourselves.