Are we masters of our own destiny?
In a response to a letter to my MP with respect to the proposed assisted dying bill, there was an interesting statement in the letter she sent out. I quote “I believe in the sovereignty of the individual and the right of that individual to have control over their own life.” She did go on to say that she would make up her own mind based on considered and informed reflection.
What an interesting idea that is, “the sovereignty of the individual.” A very laudable statement at first glance. However, as Christians, we must take our view from God’s word where we discover that we have no sovereign rights, only responsibilities, with an over-arching responsibility to God alone. He created us in His image, and He determines the length of our lives, short or long. When Adam and Eve attempted to establish their own sovereignty in the Garden of Eden, we read of the tragic result – the sentence of death, clearly spelt out to them before eating the forbidden fruit. This was the inevitable consequence of disobeying their creator. And so, explains Paul, “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned—” Romans 5 v 12.
Death is our greatest enemy, but as Christians, we look to the one who overcame both sin and death to give us eternal life – the Lord Jesus. It has been said that there are two certainties in life – death and taxes. Joking apart, the Bible confirms the former with hints to the latter! As the writer to the early Jewish converts to Christianity says, “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,” Hebrews 9 v 27.
Some Christians die slowly and painfully following prolonged periods of illness, some die peacefully in their sleep. The awesome truth is that God’s ways are perfect and that He appoints every day of our lives ultimately for His purpose and glory.
Christians, through repentance and faith in the living Lord Jesus do have a living hope, an absolute certainty, that death is not the end. It is the end of our earthly life and commencement of a life with the Lord Jesus. As Paul puts it – “My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.” Philippians 1 vs 23.
I think Paul knew the reality of the words of Asaph in Psalm 73:23–26
Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (ESV)
Is a man designed assisted dying an option for the Christian? I think not. We need to put our trust in the Lord Jesus. David writes in that famous Psalm 23, The Lord is my shepherd … though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me, Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me…
May God help us to share the good news of Jesus Christ to our dying world – especially at this time when the hopelessness of those with no hope is in the headlines.