Building of Character

I think there are a lot of factors that go into building the character of a person. Things like culture, genetics, events, history, choices, etc. all impact who we become. Had I been born in India during the 14th century - I would likely be different than I am today. If I were born with no hands, I would probably have a different career. In all scenarios - we certainly have the choice between right and wrong, and that is how we will be judged. But we can't take for granted all the historical choices of others or other outside influences that impact our culture today and who we become. For instance, had George Washington chosen not to stand up to the British - would I have been the benefactor of a well defined education system that we have here in America. Or would God have simply raised up somebody else in replace of George Washington to have accomplished the same basic scenario. I have two theories (which really make three when you combine them) that could explain how life works. Either God creates scenarios and manages them to the minute detail such that things work out the way they need to in order for us to develop and learn the things we need to - or He stands back and watches the dynamics of life unfold knowing in the end it doesn't matter what we specifically learn as long as we learn to choose the right based on the circumstances we are in. I think it is really a mix of both - He sets things up for us all the time and ensures certain things transpire - however He also utilizes the natural laws of the sciences (Physics, Biology, Sociology, Anthropology, etc.) to play out such that we can learn from whatever may come. I certainly have too much evidence to show that He individualizes the plan for us, but I also see how He allows me to learn from all that goes on. The more I think about the plan - the more I get the impression that it is perfect. I don't know why it continues to amaze me since I have known for a long time that He is perfect.