MORNING MANNA 3-8-23
CLEARING UP THE CONFUSION
Have you ever placed unrealistic expectations on God?
Some people believe that if they accept Christ, they will automatically receive material wealth and earthly blessings. But the truth is that prosperity is not guaranteed in the Christian life.
The sad reality is that many people who fall for prosperity teaching end up leaving the faith when they realize they’ve been lied to. They were promised a life of ease and comfort, but it was all a mirage. They demanded prosperity from God, using Him like a genie to grant their wishes.
Asaph, the author of numerous Psalms, confessed that he almost walked away from the faith. He was troubled by the prosperity of the wicked. He wondered how those who were most defiant toward God seemed to be showered with glory here on earth.
Asaph confessed: “ But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” (Psalm 73:2-3).
His prayer was blunt. He confessed that he was jealous of the success of the wicked around him. It almost caused him to walk away from God.
But there is no prayer too blunt for God to hear. He already knows what you’re thinking before you say it. So when you’re struggling with doubt, bring your struggles to God and allow Him to reconstruct His purposes and plans back into your life.
As Asaph’s prayer continues, we learn two important lessons about how God works on earth. First, God’s judgment toward sin may be delayed, but it will not be denied. Asaph continues: “ For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.” (Psalm 73: 27). We may not see the judgment of sin immediately, but God is just and justice will be served.
Second, God may seem indifferent toward our suffering, but He is never absent. Asaph said to God, “ Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.” (Psalm 73:23-24). He believed that God was with him, even during times of difficulty. Glory is not guaranteed on earth but is received afterward.
When life seems unfair, when persecution is great and God seems absent, may the lyrics to this hymn be the song of your heart: ( Stephen Davey)
Be still, my soul! The Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain. …
Be still my soul! The hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forget, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul! When change and tears are past,
Safe and blessed we all shall meet at last
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
Humble, Tx.
