Proverbs 3:11-12, HCSB
Psalm 31:15, HCSB
There's a popular form of Christianity in America today that teaches that God is predominantly concerned with your happiness and, if you do the right thing, you'll live in comfort. Even a cursory examination of the lives of the heroes of faith will, of course, immediately debunk such an absurd notion, but the prosperity which our nation currently enjoys helps create a culture detached from a Christian history that is filled with the suffering of its adherents as well as disconnected from the global body of believers, including those who live under the constant threat of murder and torture because of their faith.
Such a view of Christianity portrays God as a Santa Claus figure, dispensing promises and gifts as is His pleasure. And while it's true that God gives us many blessings, both spiritual and physical, and while He may, in his sovereignty, choose to make us fabulously wealthy (though, again, He may not), Scripture teaches that suffering for the true disciple is not only unavoidable, but proof of the legitimacy of our right standing with God. Common sense teaches us the same, which is why it sometimes baffles me that "Prosperity Gospel" teachers continue to attract new audiences. I understand the message certainly sounds appeal, but the "numbers," as it were, simply don't add up.
Misunderstanding God as a cosmic doting grandfather not only leads to untenable expectations, it also paves the way for despair when suffering enters our lives, as it most assuredly will. As a Christian who came out of the church culture of Oklahoma and later suffered great loss, I'm speaking from experience--which is ongoing, not complete--rather than theory.
But when we understand God as sovereign and holy, we begin to move toward a place where we can surrender our lives to Him instead of berating him with "What have you done for me lately?" prayers. Such a journey is painful. It's awkward. It's a lot like being the child of a father who really loves you and is ready to punish you when you do something stupid to help shape you into what he knows you can be.
Working through loss is, I'm discovering, a lifelong process. The pain may fade for a time, only to suddenly kick you in the ribs at a moment's notice. But I can rest knowing that my times are in God's hands. I take solace knowing that God is not sitting in the stands, alternately cheering from a distance and dozing off, while I'm on the field. No, He is near in the triumphs and the tribulations of life, regardless whether I "feel" Him or not. The God that created the universe is actively and passionately involved in my life, even if that activity and passion doesn't manifest itself in the wonderfully warm and fuzzy way that I, in my selfish nature, would very much like (as many ill-informed Christians seem to expect).
At times, I press forward. Sometimes, I fall back. And, more often than I care to consider, I'm brought to my knees, for good or ill. But I am God's child, whom He loves enough to discipline. And my times are in His hands.
