Some churches shape their entire mission and core messages around the positive promises of God.The whole "name it and claim it" concept has helped many of today's mega churches achieve exponential growth. It's spawned an entire generation of believers who think Christianity comes with an automatic exemption from trouble and a big bank account. It has also raised many questions, debates and investigations.
But what about the rest of us who live in the real world? This kind of thinking can make any Christian feel like faithless failures when we go through bad seasons and trials. Where is the balance in this type of teaching? We are not failures for having human emotions and difficulties. On the contrary, Christ empathizes with our frailties and is available to strengthen and carry us through the issues of life- both good and bad.
Condemning each other for struggling is not only hurtful but denies the important role God desires to play in our lives.
Maybe it's just me, but this prosperity focused perception hinders development of sincere relationship.
Christianity doesn't make all the evil and hard times magically disappear. It can even feel like the struggles increase as we begin to align our lives with the will of Christ.
Did we ever consider that, based on the meaning of His names, God has actually promised us difficult times?
The good news? God also promises to be there with us through it all...
If we were never expected to experience lack, then would we need Jehovah Jireh? (Provider)
God knew in our weakest moments, we would seek Him as, El Shaddai (Our Sufficiency)
If loneliness in a world filled with people, was never a factor, What would be the purpose for God saying He is always Jehovah Shamah? (God is present)
As our bodies endure illness and disease, we are also assured we can call on Him as Jehovah Ropheka (Our Healer)
Wrecked by fear, doubt and worry? He Is Jehovah Shalom (Peace)
If we would never feel defeated by the things of the world, Why can we call Him our El-Elyon
Knowing there would be times we felt confused and in need of guidance? Jehovah Rohi (Our shepherd)
Because we are lost in sin we need Jehovah Tsidkenu (Righteousness)
Without a need for salvation and cleansing we wouldn't get to know Him as Jehovah Mekaddishkem (Our Sanctification)
Not that I'm against financial blessings, but I'm more comforted knowing he's there through all that I go through. Besides, who wants a relationship that's only validated through faith in the material gain that's provided?
I don't know about you, but I'm glad that God has the room and time to have a real relationship with someone as flawed as I am...
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