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A Prayer Posing the Question: Why DO We Fear and Love God?

     ”Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” Job 1:9-11

Gracious Father, I praise you for the gift of another day and for the joy of fellowshipping with you, in your Word and by your Spirit. You are an altogether holy, gracious and loving God—truth I once again affirm as I meditate on this portion of Scripture.

This arrogant retort, from Satan to you, makes me wonder if he listens to the worse of American religious broadcasting. Much “on air” teaching substantiates his charge that the only reason we love you is because of the creature-comforts and goodies you give us—as though you have to buy our attention and affection.

That you even let that despicable creature into your presence; that you indulged his putrid proposition; that you didn’t swat him with your mighty hand or squash him with your “big thumb,” speaks of your absolute sovereignty and eternal purposes… what a God you are, what a glorious God you are.

It’s hard not to be cynical when I think about this scene; but I must guard my heart and my mouth, for I’m not presently in a season of suffering of great difficulty. Nothing is presenting a significant challenge to my faith or calling into question your goodness. I’ve got good health; there’s more check left over at the end of the month; none of my family members are in crisis (hallelujah!). Nothing beyond the normal fallen-ness and brokenness of life is happening, around me or within me.

Father, I presume on none of these kind providences. I don’t take any of your good gifts for granted. It’s only by the power of the gospel that I don’t struggle with entitlement as much as I used to; for by nature, I am a greedy, selfish man. But the Spirit has convicted me and your grace has convinced me that everything I have comes from you (1 Cor. 4:7). You owe me nothing, yet you give me so much—especially the riches of the gospel of your grace.

So as I reflect on Satan’s accusation today, it’s not with a chip on my shoulder, gritted teeth or clenched fists. But the question always remains current: Why do we revere and love you? What’s our motivation for worshiping you and living in awe of you? How will I think about you the next time I suffer loss, betrayal, and pain? That, no doubt, will happen.

Father, I want to be one of your children who loves and worships you simply because you are God. There is no other god besides you, and there is certainly no other god like you. I’m grateful for your gifts—especially the gift of Jesus; but you would be worthy of praise, glory and honor even if you had never chosen to redeem a people to love and cherish forever.  But I am glad you did, I am eternally thankful you chose to do so! So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ holy and loving name.

 


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