Most of the Christian world think they are serving God. It seems right to them to be a Christian. Many have been told that the 10 Commandments and the Sabbath do not need to be kept, and they can decide to do what seems right to them as long as they live good moral lives. They follow the majority of people in their churches, as well as their leaders. They seem so spiritual so they do not feel the necessity of keeping the 10 Commandments. There is a variety of standards of religion depending on which church you go to. Some churches are stricter in their rules. Some have a lower standard, leaving a persons’ Christianity open to their own individual conscience—resulting in a variety of standards. They do whatever seems right to them. But the Lord says, “Were men free to depart from the Lord’s requirements and to set up a standard of duty for themselves, there would be a variety of standards to suit different minds and the government would be taken out of the Lord’s hands.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 51–52
As Christians, it is easy to make decisions for ourselves and not consider what the Lord’s will is. The Bible has many counsels and guidelines that are beneficial to our Christian walk; unfortunately, some choose to interpret it according to what seems right to them, ignoring the clear word of God. What about the fine details of life; the here and now; the decisions we make daily about our careers, our education, our family, our friends? Does the Bible give us direction for the finer details of life? Yes, it does. God speaks to us through His Word. We are fully dependent on the Lord for all our important decision making.
One woman in the Watchtower Church told me it is ok to wear jewelry and make-up. It seems right. It makes her look nice and presentable. The Lord has not impressed her that it is wrong. She also said it is not necessary to keep the Sabbath—it seems ok to go on Sunday as the Lord has not spoken to her directly about that either. Well, it seems right to her, but what does the Bible say? Just because it seems right does not mean that it is right.
“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12. “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 16:25
Solomon quoted this verse twice. It was very dear to his heart. It seemed right for him to take all these foreign wives, beginning with a princess from Egypt, in order to maintain political stability for his nation. It seemed right to respect his wives’ religious beliefs and to keep them happy, by building heathen temples for them to worship as they have been raised to worship. It seemed like the right thing to do; however, in the end, death could have resulted. Thankfully Solomon came to himself before he met death. He repented and returned to the Lord.
For Pilate, it seemed right to let Jesus be taken by the Jews. He did what seemed right to him. He was probably not familiar with the written word; however, before him was the living Word Himself and he had been instructed by Him by voice and example. The governor thought that he could compromise with evil and still retain his wealth and position, but his compromise led to disgrace and death. As far as his career was concerned it was the right thing to do; unfortunately, it was all wrong. The Lord even tried to warn him of his mistake by a dream to his wife.
The same in the time of Paul. It seemed right for Felix and Festus to placate the Jews and leave Paul in prison, though both knew he was innocent of any wrongdoing (Acts 24 and 25).
The sad part in all of this is that the person may be completely convinced that a certain course of action is right, and believe it with all their heart; however, even though they may sincerely have no doubt that they are correct, if it is a mistake, there will be terrible consequences. Sincerity will not prevent the consequences. David sincerely thought he was doing the right thing by lying to the High Priest in Nob to protect the priests when he was fleeing from King Saul. The sad consequences was the death of all the priests in Nob (1 Samuel 21). A man’s opinion that the path is right does not make it right.
This is a frightening thought that Solomon shares in the above verses. We may think we are doing right, when in truth we are utterly wrong. It may seem that we are on the way to heaven, while we are really on the way to hell. We may choose a way to live what seems right to us, but may not be right at all. It only seems right, and we do not learn until the end of life that it was all a terrible mistake on our part, with devastating consequences. The truth is that we were not left alone to our own devices. The Lord was trying, all along during our pilgrimage, to get us to do the right thing because it is right. Too many people ignore the voice of the Lord and do what seems right to them. There are people who go to nominal churches (Christian or Adventist) stating that it seems right to them as there are more people there and they can have a greater influence. They ignore the fact that they are responsible for the sins committed by the organization in deviating from the 10 Commandments if they are joined to it.
It is possible, not only for people in the world and other Christian churches, but also those in God’s church, to be on the wrong road when it seems right to them. It is the life choices we make, whether it is our career, our spouse, our education, our place of living, our friends, our associates, the food we eat, our hobbies, how we spend our time. It all may seem right, but is it God’s will? Is it God’s “right” for us? The way we may be going may not seem wrong, a violation of Biblical principles, and it may seem right; but the question to ask is, is it God’s way for us?
Although it may seem right and the most logical way, the way God wants us to live, it may not be God’s will. We must be ever so careful to walk in a way that not only seems, looks, or appears to be right, but is right in the eyes of God. Too often friends and associates may have given their approval on their ideas and so a person thinks it is correct. Or they may feel a particular move is the best move to make for financial success. However, we need to consider how God views matters, rather than our own ideas or those of our friends, family or associates. Also, some have allowed their feelings to lead them to what they feel is right. Many mistakes have been made in marriage when a person goes with their feelings; what feels and seems right, but may not be right in God’s eyes.
People often choose a way of life simply because it promises them earthly happiness. Throughout history we have seen that in order to secure material advantages, men have justified war, persecution, deceit, and business irregularities. It seemed right to them because they believe that the end justifies the means, even though the means may not always be correct. Others choose a way of life simply because it flatters them and brings them fame and fortune. Men believe in their own way just because it is the way they have chosen. Unfortunately, many of these people are on the way to death. They can be so self-deceived that when shown the error of their ways, they do not believe it. They still feel they are right. Then some do see their error but are too proud to turn back around and do what the Lord is asking. Judas Iscariot felt the pangs of conscience when Jesus washed his feet; however, he refused to yield, and went out into darkness. Lucifer also knew that he was all wrong in the end, but he was too proud to yield.
“When a man takes the position that when he has once made a decision he must stand by it, and never to alter his decision, he is on the same ground as was Lucifer when he rebelled against God. He held his plans regarding the government of heaven as an exalted, unchangeable theory.
“No man should think that human opinions are to be immortalized. Any man taking the stand that he will never change his views places himself on dangerous ground. Those who hold the position that their views are unchangeable can not be helped; for they place themselves where they are not willing to receive counsel and admonition from their brethren.” –Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1161
There are only two ways to go in this world and we have to make sure we are on the right way. “For wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13–14. The two ways are: our own way and God’s way. We must make absolute sure that we are on the Lord’s way.
Being a member of God’s church does not guarantee that we are on the right way. Here is a serious thought. While it is important to be a part of God’s church, “Let
church members bear in mind that the fact that their names are registered on the church books will not save them.” –Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 48. There is more to it. Many have been in God’s church and have been going their own way because it seemed right to them. They have caused divisions, they have stolen money and properties. They have gone their own way and eventually left the church.
Some have remained in the church until their death and only then it is seen just how much they have been going their own way. And sometimes we may never know in this life who has been going their own way; not until we are in heaven and see some people missing who we thought would be there.
We have many examples in the Bible of people who did what seemed right to them, but were all wrong. Take for instance, the king of Judah, Asa. He started his career on a positive note. “And Asa did that which was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God.” 2 Chronicles 14:2. However, at the end of his life, he made a mistake. It seemed right for him to request the aid of a strong foreign power to help him with his battle. However, it was not right in the eyes of God, and Asa did not accept the rebuke that came from the Lord. “And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the LORD thy God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of thine hand. . . Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars. Then Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him in a prison house; for he was in a rage with him because of this thing.” 2 Chronicles 16:7, 9–10
Then there are times God asks us to go and do something that may not always seem right to us at all. Take Jonah for example. It just did not seem right to him to go to the city of Nineveh—that wicked city—to preach the gospel. But that is where God wanted him to be. And also, Abraham. It just did not seem right for him to sacrifice Isaac. But he obeyed. We must obey God implicitly and not question Him, even though it may not seem right to us.
“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:22–23. And then we have the parable of the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25—who is really represented here? Are they worldly people, nominal Christians or Adventists? Although in reality some may be, yes. But will you find people like this in God’s church? People who get to the end of their lives and say these words, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved” (Jeremiah 8:20), being told by the Lord, “I do not know you”?
“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.” Proverbs 21:2. Even conscience cannot always be trusted. Conscience needs to be educated according to the word of God.
The man who has made a law to himself is certain that his ways are pure. How can his conclusions be otherwise when the only standard of judgment he possesses is his own? It is the work of the Holy Spirit to break through this false sense of security and to bring the conviction that there is an absolute standard, most clearly stated in the Word of God and most effectively illustrated and exemplified in the life of Christ. Only God knows the underlying motives in the self-deceiving hearts of men, and He uses every agency of heaven to bring to man the conviction that they need a Saviour. Divinity, combined with humanity, is the only way to make sure we are on the right road.
The ways of death are not entered into blindly or thoughtlessly. They are chosen because they seem to be right under the current circumstances. The warning is against trusting the guidance of the conscience without checking the conscience constantly against the teachings of the Word of God. Many men have persuaded themselves that God will accept a substitute for His precise requirements, only to find themselves that they have lost all. Like Cain.
God, and the watching universe have this view of mankind, doing what seems right to them. “The way of man is froward and strange.” Proverbs 21:8. It is strange to them. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.” Proverbs 16:2. These people are self-deceived as described in the Laodicean message. “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:17. They are always making excuses for their sins and faults when they are pointed out, as did Adam and Eve from the very beginning. They choose to do what seems right to them.
The sparkling, cool, clear water in a mountain stream may be toxic and fatal. It may look all right, but be poison. It may appear, to the naked eye, to be clear, clean, transparent and pure water, but actually be full of deadly poison. Some things are not what they seem! We must remember this in regards to morals and religion. For example, some form of entertainment may seem to be right; it may appear to be right but, upon further investigation, it turns out to be detrimental—some TV shows, sporting events, or foods we eat, for example.
And sometimes, a religious practice may have the approval of the majority; all the appearances may lend themselves to acceptance; but, when you really study the matter and check the Scriptures, it turns out to be wrong. Some things are not what they seem. And this applies to doctrines, moral issues, religious institutions, religious personalities and religious ideas or interpretations of Scripture. Some things are not what they seem. Truth must be searched for as for hidden treasure and the goodly pearl.
The pathway of life may look like a smooth garden-path, winding among flower-beds; it may be attractive, appealing and agreeable. But, in the end, it is the way of death! The way leading to destruction is usually not accompanied by a large sign that reads, “The Way of Death.” Some things are not what they seem. So we need to take time to study the Word of God to gain insight and make right decisions! Let us look beyond appearances, as far as we can and find out, for sure, that which is good. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1
Many people are aware of the defects in their lives; unfortunately, they seldom deliberately sin without trying to justify themselves. They may compare themselves with others and decide that, in view of their background and difficulties, they are at least as good as others are. Or they may reason that they have certain weaknesses which the Lord will continually forgive. They accept the standards that God has set up, but feel they cannot keep them to the fullest. It seems all right (Romans 7:18–20); God is love, merciful and forgiving—forever, and ever, and ever. They forget that there will be a judgment day one day.
“It is for the eternal interest of every one to search his own heart, and to improve every God-given faculty. Let all remember that there is not a motive in the heart of any man that the Lord does not clearly see. The motives of each one are weighed as carefully as if the destiny of the human agent depended upon this one result. We need a connection with divine power, that we may have an increase of clear light and an understanding of how to reason from cause to effect. We need to have the powers of the understanding cultivated, by our being partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Let each one consider carefully the solemn truth, God in heaven is true, and there is not a design, however intricate, nor a motive, however carefully hidden, that He does not clearly understand. He reads the secret devisings of every heart. Men may plan out crooked actions for the future, thinking that God does not understand; but in that great day when the books are opened, and every man is judged by the things written in the books, those actions will appear as they are.” –Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1160
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:9–10.With this condition of the heart, how can we trust our own hearts to let us know what seems right? We have the information in the Word of God to know what God’s will is and we have the intellectual capability to learn it.
We need to know what is right for us according to God’s will regarding important decisions such as the place we live, the person we marry, and our career path. Not what seems right to us. And for the most important decisions we must be faithfully knowing God’s will and not doing what seems right to us; for example, proper Sabbath-keeping or laws of heath. If you value the purity and salvation of your soul, you must study, revere, love and obey the word of God, as it is revealed in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, carefully to the letter. Only by the grace of God can this be done; however, it must be done. Man’s judgment has been seriously impaired by sin. He feels absolutely sure that the way to heaven is by doing the best he can. He is certain that he will be saved as long as he does what seems right to him. This can be a false sense of security.
“No man can be happy and depart from God’s specified requirements, and set up a standard of his own which he decides he can safely follow. Then there would be a variety of standards to suit the different minds, and the government taken out of the Lord’s hands and human beings grasp the reins of government. The law of self is erected, the will of man is made supreme; and when the high and holy will of God is presented to be obeyed, respected, and honored the human will wants its own way. . . to do its own promptings, and there is a controversy between the human agent and the divine.” –Reflecting Christ, p. 56
May God help us to know what His will is through a careful study of His word so that in the end we will not be lost by doing simply what seemed right to us. Amen.
Wendy Eaton