Name Calling

When you were going through a terrible time did you ever accuse God of not caring about you, because if He really REALLY did, then you wouldn’t be in such deep waters in the first place? Have you ever got so angry with God that you’ve called Him ugly names? Maybe you aren’t the type to shout or scream, or sulk and scowl, but I’ll admit to resorting to name calling and Rumpelstiltskin foot stomping fury while lashing out in my confusion and pain. We’ve possibly all done so, some possibly more so than others, during a particularly trying time in our walk. Being vocal used to be more my default option. Cringe.

Before you judge me, this even happened to the disciples when a huge and terrifying storm hit them hard while they were out at sea in a small boat. With fishermen among them, perhaps they were more aware of the weather and its sudden changes. This storm seriously scared them. They woke Jesus, who was asleep on a cushion. I particularly love the little bit of real, but almost inconsequential, detail – a cushion. Did Jesus have a favourite soft cushion, like I do? I’m digressing. But, the pillow talk does make Jesus more real, doesn’t it? In their fear of drowning, the disciples cried out, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38 NIV). I can only speak for myself, but I can hear my own voice ringing in their question? 

For falsely accusing Him of not caring, you would think that Jesus would take offence and leave them to their own devices. Instead, He put out His arm and and the storm was stilled. (Mark 4:39). The disciples were amazed, awestruck, by the miracle. Now, that’s the kind of lifesaver that you need, especially when in way ‘WAY over-you-head’ in ocean’s deep.

God sees us struggling and striving and trying to solve our own problems, erroneously thinking, “He doesn’t care. I’m all alone in this. If I don’t take care of these things, nobody else will! That God only helps those who help themselves. That it’s all up to me. Me. Me.” And yet, what He desperately wants is for us to know how much He loves us, wants to help us and extravagantly bless us. and that the only labour we need ever do is labour to enter His rest. Man, I am sure labouring to do just that right now! It’s not nearly as easy as it sounds!

It was during an incredibly painful time of ‘deep DEEP pruning’ over a decade ago that we cried out, “God why are you punishing us?” And His reply was, “I love you. This is not Me punishing you. I have absolutely no desire or need to punish you”. You see, Jesus paid the price for the FULL punishment for each and every one of our sins – past, present, and future. Actually, they were all future sins as He died more than 2000 years ago. So, there is absolutely NO need whatsoever for God to punish us! Sadly, many Christians don’t yet know this! It breaks God’s heart when we incorrectly think that it’s Him punishing us for whatever we are going through.

No matter what you or I are going through, and irrespective of what we have or haven’t called Him, or how much you have or haven’t avoided or ignored Him, He adores me and He adores you. He calls you His beloved son or daughter. Whatever is going down, let’s just return to the safety of being held in His embrace. He particularly loves it when we address Him as Abba (Dad). Now, that’s a name worth calling loudly upon and resting safely in.

My Abba

I’m floundering in these deep waters in which I currently find myself. Fear and faith are colliding. I feel as though I’m in danger of drowning. It’s waaaaay too deep for my comfort. I’m feeling vulnerable and alone, afraid, actually terrified if I’m really honest. In my blind panic, I’m really struggling to trust. Fear, doubt and unbelief are competing for the podium places in my heart that should be reserved for Peace. Hope. Love. Oh how I thank you that there is no condemnation in Christ.

Spirit, help me to hear Your reassuring words “Peace, be still”. And in this ‘wind-drop quiet’ moment, thank you that You will still the storm within me, too. And, shielded in Love, may my fear fall away a little at a time. As my Lifeguard, thank you that You will lead me out of the deep waters into the safety of Your luscious green pastures. Thank you for the plans You have for me, plans to give me a hope and a future. Grace. Grace.

Thank you Abba

Amen

Do you still think that it’s God punishing you when things go wrong in your life or you get sick etc.?

Do you know that Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the law when He died upon the cross, and that is the reason why now there is no condemnation (in Christ)? For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Cor 5 21 (NKJV)