"God, why do the wicked get whatever they want. They continually disobey you, yet they have more money, nicer homes, and better cars than I could ever dream of having. They seem to have a perfect life, and it's just not fair. I try to serve you every day, but I'm still struggling just to make ends meet."
Sound familiar? Come on, admit it. You've thrown one of these parties yourself, haven't you? If we're honest, I think we've all had these thoughts at least once in our lifetime. But, what I really want to point out is the change of heart in verse 17. Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. At this point, Asaph's pity party turned into a praise party.
Asaph finally turned his eyes away from himself and others, and he placed his attention on God. What a difference it made! He spends the rest of the chapter praising God for what He has done and what He will do. He ends the chapter by saying, But it is good for me to draw near to God. Amen to that!
So, if you're in the midst of a glorious pity party, get your eyes off of yourself and your circumstances. Instead, look to God who is much greater than any situation you may be in. Call on His name. Give Him praise. Thank Him in advance for the blessings that He has yet to give you, and don't forget to give thanks for the many blessings you've already received. As Asaph said, it is good to draw near to God, and you can't do that and throw a pity party at the same time. It is true that life is not always fair, but it is also true that God is just. He will make all things right. After all, if we have Him, we truly have all that we need.
Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. - Psalm 73:25
2 comments:
I believe that life can seem unfair, but if you look at the whole picture, what happens in our time on Earth really doesn't matter much. When you consider the gift of everlasting life God has for us and focus on His Word, you can see these feelings we have on Earth will all disappear when we get to Heaven. Since I've been able to focus on this gift, I've not had a pity party -- must be at least 5 years! And though I can't wait to get there sometimes, life here is much more than bearable, it's glorious, knowing I am serving His will!
Revelation 21:4 (NIV2011)
4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
What a wonderful perspective, Peter. Thanks for commenting. You're so right, and oddly enough, what you said here is what I just wrote about for Monday's devotion. It's the end goal that should be our driving force, not what's happening here on Earth. Thank you again!
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