08/29/2022
As Christians we would like to think of ourselves as being mature in our faith, but sometimes we behave more like children by repeatedly asking the Lord “Why?”. When we don’t like what He has asked us to do, or don’t understand His reasoning, then we begin to ask “Why?” over and over again. If someone were to ask us whether we are trusting and obedient when God speaks to us, we would say yes, but our constant questioning of Him indicates otherwise. Do we behave in this manner?
“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.”
Hebrews 11:8 ESV
Every parent knows how little children will ask the same questions repeatedly. We all have heard them ask “Are we there yet?”, “How much further?”, and yes, we have heard the famously annoying question “Why!” asked in response to each answer we might give them. And sometimes we believe they are asking just to annoy us. Thank goodness the patience of our Heavenly Father, and Jesus, is more perfect than ours.
“But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.”
1 Timothy 1:16 ESV
There is a difference between praying repeatedly each day for something, and questioning God’s motives, reasoning, wisdom, or trying to influence Him by testing His patience. When we sincerely pray for the second coming of Jesus it is not the same as chanting the question “Is He here yet?” or “How much longer?”, ad nauseam. It is one thing to ask in prayer for Jesus to return soon, and quite another to chant the line “Come, Lord Jesus” nonstop until we are hoarse, red in the face, or fall asleep in the process. We already have the certain assurance of His coming, so chanting as a mantra serves no purpose beyond our reassuring prayer “Come, Lord Jesus.”
“He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.”
Revelation 22:20-21 ESV
So how do we pray? Do we do so as a child, or as a mature believer? Do we pray each day for something that we want God to provide, or do we chant our requests, or question His reasoning, timing, and wisdom? Abraham obeyed without questioning God; he went out not knowing where he was going… so how do we obey? Can we do the same thing? Can we go without asking repeatedly if we are there yet, or why we are being asked to go in the first place?
“I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.”
Psalm 119:60 ESV
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your patience when we pray, or question you as children might do. Help us lord to obey you as mature believers by trusting in your Word, and the wisdom of your will. Holy, Holy, Holy, are you our God who is perfect in every way, and who never fails us. Praised be your name as we are obedient to you always, and trust in you without question. Merciful are you Father, and we find our faith strengthened as we wait upon you. Your grace is unwavering, and our confidence in it should be as well. Help us to be more like Christ with each passing day, and to accept your will as He does. Wash us in His blood, and purify us. See Him in us as we stand before you, and forgive all our shortcomings through His sacrifice. Call us yours, and seat us at your table forevermore… in this we trust, and have no doubt.
Rich Forbes