I recently shared in the struggle of a person processing their religious beliefs in light of loss. A foundation of faith had been laid. S/he knew the right words to say. Yet, in crisis, s/he was smitten by the challenges brought on by the harsh reality of life in this world. A battle raged in the mind and the repercussions echoed into the spirit.
Multiple centuries ago, Asaph, a Jewish writer, began, “Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggle… always carefree, they increase in wealth… See Psalm 73:1-14 NIV.
Then, he poured out his frustration that trouble has come to him, a good guy, and seems always to bypass the bad guys: “Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure…” My faith hasn’t protected me from trouble. It’s a waste!
Abruptly, Asaph arrested himself. Psalm 73:15 marks a change in his focus. After writing transparently about his feelings, he tapped into another dimension of the picture. He provides us with binocular vision, “If I let myself be overheard talking like this, I would have betrayed this generation of your children. When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.
Asaph concludes with a renewed statement of faith, “As for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.”
Personally, I gain from Asaph’s example. Here was a man whose faith was challenged through difficulty. He was honest enough to say what he felt and chose to write it down. He took a breath and a step back and reflected. He summarized his decision to stick to his faith. He promised to use the experience to enrich others. Can I do as well?
- Chaplain Robin
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