God Told Me. . .

For more than fifty-five years I have had people tell me (from time to time):  "God told me."
It happened recently, and I have been reflecting on what that means.

God told me, because I was asking for direction. . .
God told me, and I took a step in a direction that makes sense now that I look back at it. . .
God told me, and told me to tell you because you aren't paying attention any more. . .
God told me, and now I get to be the "boss" of all you other people . . .
God told me, and I am checking myself in to a psychiatric hospital. . .
God told me, and you'd better do what I say . . .

I admit I initially cringe when I hear this phrase, because it is usually used to justify controlling or nasty behavior.  I try to listen with an open mind.  Sometimes I reflect on what a person says, because people are important.
Usually, however, "God told me" turns out to be nonsense.  Often a 'reason' to justify behavior that really cannot be justified in a person of faith.

One story:  a lady told a young woman that God told her to divorce her husband, leave her child with him, and go marry a prominent sports figure (who was also married).  Obviously either the lady giving this counsel was delusional, evil, or had very sick needs to control others.  Fortunately the young woman sought counsel elsewhere, and ended her relationship with the "God told me to tell you" lady.

What do you think?  Leave a comment and let us know.