August 31, 2005

Love Never Fails (2)

1 Corinthians 13:8-13

Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

—  1 Corinthians 13:12b

I want to believe with all my heart “that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). But I must confess that I don’t always see and understand fully the good that God is working out in many situations.

For example, I don’t understand fully the good that God is working out through the enslavement and continued racial discrimination against people, like myself, of African descent. I don’t understand fully the good that comes from the sexual abuse, and sometimes murder of innocent, helpless children. I can’t comprehend the good that is derived from the genocide resulting from people who demonize others in the name of religion. I don’t always see the good that God is working out through diseases like cancer, schizophrenia, and Alzheimers. I often feel like that father of a demon-possessed son who cried out to Jesus, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).

How do I avoid being overwhelmed with despair? I cling to the belief that “God is love” (1 John 4:16). And I cling to his promise that one day “I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” I pray that you too are sustained by this belief in the one who “loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). as we journey toward the resurrected life in Christ Jesus. 

Father, I long for the day when I shall know fully your loving ways. Deepen my faith and hope until at last I attain to the goal of my faith—perfection. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

About the author — Richard E. Williams

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