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God is able according to absolute power to do anything that accords with his nature. For example, although God cannot lie, since he is truth according to his nature, he could decree anything for creation that does not violate his character. For instance, according to his absolute power, he could have justly left sinners to die in their sins. On the other hand, in his ordained power, God has decreed what will come to pass in history. For instance, God decreed not to leave all sinners to die justly for their sins but to save some through Christ the mediator. Although God cannot renege on any promise, he did not have to make every promise that he has. God did not have to promise not to destroy the world with a flood again, but now that he has, he would be unjust to break that promise. This distinction provides explanatory power for things that God appointed to be as they are but that could be otherwise.