So... two years later the questions linger, as does the struggle to understand. But there is progress. I begin to see that the core issue is unbelief.
After calming the raging storm on the Sea of Gallilee, Jesus chided His disciples for their hardness of heart and unbelief. "For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened." Mark 6:52; and again, a short time later, in chapter 8:17-19. I've often wondered about His rebuke... seemed a little harsh.
But, when I think about it from His perspective, I begin to see His point. When I doubt Him, am I not displaying unbelief? Despite the constant assertions of His compassion and concern given me in His word, I keep up 'protective' walls. I have found many of the authorities in my life to be varying degrees of abusive, and have 'learned' to guard my heart closely. I guess you could say my heart is hardened... but it seems too 'dangerous' not to be!
The missing piece here is Trust. Yes, there are many reasons to mistrust human leadership. It is plagued by self-absorption and pride. But God's sovereignty is another subject altogether. He does not suffer from our human fears or needs. He knows all and knows best... and He so desires to see that 'best' lived out in our lives. Refusing His direction is like trying to drive beside the highway... things just keep getting bumpier. The rules of the road are in place to make the journey more pleasant--not just to oppress or give the Highway Patrol something to do.
Consider the continual assertions in the book of Deuteronomy. Just before entering the Promised Land, Moses was reminding the younger generation of Israelites of God's commands and care during their wilderness wanderings. Phrases like "for thy good", "for our good", that the Lord thy God may bless thee", abound. (I once counted over 30 in this one book alone!)
If I am willing to believe what He says--and live like I do--the need for self-protection is moot. If He is all-knowing and all-powerful, everything that crosses my path is within His control. Whether I understand the point at the time, is beside the point. (Consider the "wax on, wax off" principle). He knows who I am, and who He created me to be. He knows what it will take to get me there. Regardless of what anyone says or does, He can be trusted.
