Isaiah 28:12 to whom he said,
“This is the resting place, let the weary rest”;
and, “This is the place of repose”–
but they would not listen.

God is not mean. So many people have such trouble believing that! We are exactly like little children who pout and cry and say their parents don’t love them because they won’t let the children play with sharp knives. If we believe that God both knows and desires what is best for us, then we will listen and obey. The better we know and trust God, the more strongly we will desire to be His disciples. When we stubbornly refuse to listen and obey, as the people of Israel and Judah did, then conditions get harsher and harsher. The people were accusing God of being a petty tyrant, a control freak, when He was trying to keep them from disaster and lead them into restful abundance. Finally He said, in verse 13, “If that’s the way you want it, then that’s exactly how it will be,” with destructive legalism. Many people still fall into that trap. Trusting God enough to believe and act on what He has already said frees us up from legalism.

As a child, a parent, a grandparent, and a pastor, I have experienced this from just about every angle. I have learned that rules which seem arbitrary at the time are often meant to keep us from great danger. I have learned that God indeed loves us, and He truly knows what is best, far better than we do. Even so, I kick and scream over all sorts of things, reacting with disappointment, resentment, and even anger at things God allows in my life. That wastes so much emotional energy and does nobody any good! I need to remember emotionally what I have learned intellectually, that God always has my very best interest in mind, and give Him thanks and praise whatever is going on. As a pastor, parent, and grandparent I know I genuinely desire the best for those in my care, yet they sometimes respond the way I sometimes respond to God. (Surprise – not!) I need to exercise toward them the patience God has shown to me, asking God for wisdom in expressing His love to them, whether they are recognizing and receiving it or not.

Father, I have not been the most obedient of children. At times I have kicked hard against the goads and have hurt myself, like Saul did. (Acts 26:14) Help me trust You enough to rejoice in You whatever is going on around me. I’m reminded of Merlin Carothers, singing “God is working for my good” to the tune of “Mary had a Little Lamb.” Help me believe and trust that simple truth at all times, so that I may walk in the peace, joy, and abundance that You intend for me, for Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!