There are many places in Scripture where the phrase “how long, oh Lord” is expressed. This phrase exhibits a longing for change and protection.
As I listen to news of the day I connect with this sentiment. There is much in our world that appears out of control and evil seems to win the day too often. My thoughts echo the words in Habakkuk 1:3-4, where he asks God,
“Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise. So the law is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so justice goes forth perverted.”
Reading further, I am reminded that God remains in control and I can leave it in His hands. I long for the day when Jesus reigns and this mess will be cleaned up. Yet, somehow, I must learn to be content living in the not-yet.
I am learning (slowly) to hear God’s prompting as to what I am to be about and be content to let the rest go. I’m also learning to bring the stuff I cannot change to God in prayer knowing that he cares about it and will bring his plan into reality.
The core question is “do I trust that God loves me and is concerned about me?” If the answer is yes, then I will stand on that and rest.
@mhmcintyre says
February 21, 2014 at 6:26 PMFrom the archives: Living in the Not Yet http://t.co/IyTbYdDd3F
#BibleReflection
scott kelly says
January 9, 2011 at 4:02 PMAt times i’ve caught myself so distracted by fantasizing about heaven that I forget to focus on earthly matters. Not to the extent that the Thessalonians did, but nevertheless I am not sure I have found an appropriate balance between the hope of heaven and our call to “occupy till He comes”. I look around at the dismal effects of sin in the world (and in my own life) and close my eyes to imagine the new heaven and new earth. I pray, “Lord, please come quickly!” which is usually proceeded with guilt in that so many people I love are lost. I can relate to Paul in his letter to the Philippians where he remarks of his dilemma in desiring to depart and be with Christ (better by far!) and to abide here to further the kingdom.