Garry Friesen on God’s will

The truly wise father teaches his child the basic principles of life. He teaches right and wrong, wisdom and foolishness. He trains the child to make his own decisions within those moral guidelines. He is overjoyed when he sees his child grow into a mature adult capable of making wise decisions. This very picture is developed by the apostle Paul in Galatians 4:1-11. Throughout history, God has dealt with His people as a wise father would rear his children. As children grow, they are given increased responsibility. With increased responsibility comes greater freedom and fewer restrictions. The other images indicate a similar pattern. A good shepherd sets boundaries for his sheep, but allows freedom of movement within those boundaries. He establishes limits for the safety of the sheep, but does not point out which specific tufts of grass ought to be eaten by each animal. Likewise, an effective king does not seek to legislate every activity of his people. He establishes basic laws to promote order and uses penalties to promote compliance. He does not desire a nation of slaves, but a kingdom of people who respect his wisdom and appreciate his protection. When such a relationship exists, the people will act responsibly within the limits of the law. God does guide His people like a father, shepherd, and king. But these figures do not prove the existence of an individual will of God. If these figures argue anything, they demonstrate that God guides through the basic principles of life given in the Bible (His moral will), thereby teaching His children to wisely use their freedom in the application of those principles to the decisions of life. Friesen, Garry (2009-10-07). Decision Making and the Will of God: A Biblical Alternative to the Traditional View (p. 43). Multnomah Books. Kindle Edition.