Topical Encyclopedia Resignation, in the context of Christian theology, refers to the act of submitting to the will of God, trusting in His divine wisdom and sovereignty. This concept is deeply rooted in the understanding that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding, and His plans are ultimately for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28: "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.").Biblical Foundations The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage believers to resign themselves to God's wisdom. One of the most profound examples is found in the life of Job. Despite his immense suffering and loss, Job ultimately submits to God's wisdom, acknowledging, "I know that You can do all things and that no plan of Yours can be thwarted" (Job 42:2). Job's account illustrates the importance of trusting in God's greater plan, even when circumstances are incomprehensible. Similarly, the Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, expresses a deep sense of contentment and resignation to God's will, regardless of his circumstances. He writes, "I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need" (Philippians 4:12). Paul's contentment is rooted in his trust in God's provision and wisdom. Motives for Resignation 1. God's Omniscience and Sovereignty: Believers are motivated to resign to God's wisdom because of His omniscience and sovereignty. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." This passage underscores the vastness of God's wisdom compared to human understanding. 2. Trust in God's Goodness: Resignation is also motivated by a trust in God's inherent goodness. Psalm 34:8 invites believers to "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!" This assurance of God's goodness encourages believers to submit to His will, knowing that He desires what is best for them. 3. Christ's Example: Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of resignation to God's wisdom. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing imminent crucifixion, Jesus prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). Christ's submission to the Father's will, even unto death, exemplifies perfect resignation and trust in God's redemptive plan. 4. Peace and Assurance: Resignation to God's wisdom brings peace and assurance. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This peace is a result of trusting in God's wisdom and relinquishing control to Him. 5. Eternal Perspective: Finally, resignation is motivated by an eternal perspective. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 states, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Understanding that God's wisdom encompasses an eternal plan encourages believers to trust and resign to His will, knowing that their present circumstances are part of a greater, eternal purpose. In summary, resignation to God's wisdom is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the recognition of God's sovereignty, goodness, and eternal perspective. Through biblical examples and teachings, believers are encouraged to trust in God's perfect wisdom, finding peace and assurance in His divine plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 11:32,33For God has concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy on all. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Holy Wisdom: or, Directions for the Prayer of Contemplation More Special Advices Touching the Exercise of Affections of Divine ... Certain General Rules for Mortification Sufficient for Some. ... Of Exercises of the Will: to Wit, Forced Immediate Acts... A Second Discouragement in Prayer Opposite to Perseverance, to Wit ... How Internal Livers Ought to Behave Themselves in Time of Sickness ... Of the Fourth Kind of General Mortifications, viz... Of Special Duties of Religious Persons. ... A Change from Meditation to Prayer of the Will is Necessary in an ... Of the Obligation of the English Benedictines to the Mission... Resources What is the prophecy of St. Malachy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about acceptance? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about fate / destiny? | GotQuestions.org Resignation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Resignation: Christ Set and Example of Resignation: General Scriptures Concerning Resignation: Motives to God's Faithfulness Resignation: Motives to God's Greatness Resignation: Motives to God's Justice Resignation: Motives to God's Love Resignation: Motives to God's Wisdom Resignation: Motives to Our own Sinfulness Resignation: Submission to the Sovereignty of God in his Purposes Resignation: Submission to the Will of God Resignation: The Prospect of Death Resignation: The Wicked are Devoid of Related Terms |
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