“You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make yourself a carved image – any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them…”  Exodus 20:3 – 4

This commandment unveils the profound significance of order. As we explore the realms of permutations and combinations, we discover the meticulous design inherent to His plan. 

Delving into the realm of probability, we encounter two fascinating facets: permutations and combinations. Permutations reflect instances where order holds significance.  On the other hand, combinations are where the order is inconsequential. We see the order in God’s creation all the time.  We might see things as random, but God has a reason for everything that happens.  

An example of permutations is the Ten Commandments; we might think order does not matter until we realize it does.  At first glance, one might think of them as a collection of moral guidelines, seemingly interchangeable in order. However, a closer examination reveals the first two commandments had to do with us serving God and making sure we did not put anyone or anything ahead of Him.  Here, order matters – a deliberate sequence to establish a foundation, urging us to prioritize our relationship with Him. Without this fundamental order, the Commandments risk becoming mere moral guidelines, lacking a firm foundation.

Conversely, the apostles listed in various books of the Bible offer a glimpse into the realm of combinations. Throughout the New Testament, the list of apostles is different showing Jesus did not stress a particular order for the apostles.  The different orderings in these texts highlight that, in this context, the sequence of apostles is secondary. God gave them each an important part of His plan, and each one fulfilled it.  Just as God created you “for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14)

   In both permutations and combinations, God’s design is apparent in the meticulous arrangement of creation. As we navigate the probabilities of life, we need to focus on Jesus’ greatest commandment.  “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your mind, and with all your soul.  This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matthew 22:37 – 38)

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” 2 Corinthians 4:17

In the face of overwhelming challenges, the wisdom of 2 Corinthians 4:17 beckons us to shift our focus to the eternal glory that surpasses our momentary troubles. Like solving a complex math problem, life unfolds one step at a time under God’s guidance. Each step is a lesson learned, akin to mastering mathematical concepts. By following the path illuminated by God’s Word, life becomes manageable, and we find ease in adversity. Reflecting on the journey, we realize that what seemed insurmountable wasn’t as formidable as anticipated. Surviving and thriving become our testimony, a testament to the transformative power of faith. In the grand equation of life, the sum of our struggles pales in comparison to the eternal glory God is crafting for us. So, take one step at a time, for in the simplicity of trust, we discover the profound strength to endure and triumph.

As we embark on a new year, resolutions often involve cutting out or adding elements to our lives – a symbolic reshaping of our physical selves. In geometry, a midsegment is a line segment connecting the midpoints of a shape, mirroring our resolutions to redefine our outward appearance. However, much like these geometric midsegments, our external changes may not reach the core of our being.

Defined as “a part cut off or divided,” the concept of midsegments in geometry draws a parallel to our New Year transformations. We strive to eliminate unhealthy habits and enhance our physical well-being, yet the real challenge lies within our hearts. Despite our efforts to be better individuals, true success may elude us unless we address the deeper issues in our lives.

God desires more than mere outward sacrifices or lip service; He seeks our hearts.

Sometimes, it feels like I add spending time with God as a checklist.  I get up in the morning, and I check off reading His word.  I want to have God’s word really penetrate my heart and change it.  He is the only one that can change the heart.  

God wants us just to be still and wait.  

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 

Exodus 14:14