A Great Big Lie

 

Based on the scripture above, one might ask: If nothing in life is more than humans are capable of handling alone, then why do we need God?  I have walked through dark circumstances during my life that might have ended very badly, had I not called out to God. At times, circumstances cause such anguish and despair that it is difficult not to contemplate an intentional end to life. God loves each of us. Every day, He walks beside His children. The Bible says He is omnipresent. If that is true, how can anything bad happen?

The world is chaotic and volatile. It jeopardizes not only our relationship with Him, but also our physical and mental safety. As a free-willed creation, humans often turn from Him and go their own way. God can and does protect His children, according to His will, but He does not spare us all suffering because He wants each of us to understand our need for Him. That need seals the salvation of all who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. The first chapter of Peter says:

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Satan is the enemy of God, and his entire existence is ruled by the desire to destroy and deceive humanity. It is Satan's strategy to pervert scripture in such a way that it gives incorrect perceptions of Who God is and how He relates to our human creation. A wrong perception of God can lead to feelings of betrayal and distrust. Lies do not come from God, no matter how convincing they may seem. The Bible is the Word of God. Absolute truth comes from Him and from His Word. There is no lie in God, however, both Satan and humans are capable of lying. Take care not to be deceived. Whenever anything from any source seems out of character for God, make sure to check it against the Bible's Truth. Christians, both ministers and laypeople, have said that God does not give humans more than they can handle. While it sounds good and comforting, it isn't true. The verse mentioned at the beginning of this post has been misinterpreted by many through the years. Many have claimed that this scripture assures us that God never gives a person more than he or she can handle. What is actually started is that one cannot be TEMPTED beyond their capacity to resist. Every person is tempted in some way today, as Christ was tempted in every way while walking the earth. Scripture should not be taken out of context to suit something it wasn't meant to promise, especially to new believers who are still learning about God. Such misunderstandings can permanently damage believers' perceptions of God. Can humans experience emotional trauma, grief, despair, and physical pain beyond their capacity to cope? Without a doubt! It's a sad reality! The world is filled with corruption and evil. The state of the world has remained unchanged since Adam and Eve fell in the Garden of Eden. You need not be afraid. God has promised never to leave His children alone, even in the midst if strife.. For each of us, he is a constant presence, a constant comfort, and a formidable ally. 

It is because God desires intimacy with His creation that He is omnipresent in the lives of humans. Ultimately, He wants us to depend on Him for love and guidance. In return for His sacrifice and provision, He wants our love and trust.

 It is true that God does not spare His children from even the worst worldly traumas, but He does promise to walk beside us, and if necessary, to carry us through the difficulties we face. The Lord is strong enough to bring us through each trial safely. All that is required to ensure His constant presence and support is trust, humility, and acknowledgment of our need for Him. 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I ask you to please give me discernment in reading Your Word. Satan is a liar and he seeks to deceive and destroy. I know You are stronger and have already defeated Satan. Please help me to recognize Truth when I see or hear it. Let the Holy Spirit bear witness within me when Truth is uttered. Let the Holy Spirit warn me when any deceiver is near or when any claim I am exposed to is a lie and not of You. I trust you with my safety and life.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Karen Butler Ogle