I have sometimes felt frustrated with people who passively “wait for the Lord” to fix their problems without taking any available action toward solving the difficulties themselves. Here are some examples that come to mind:
Instead of seeking a new job after being downsized, a person inactively waits and expects God to bring an employment opportunity to him.
Instead of seeking medical care for a loved one, a person expects God to miraculously heal the ailing.
Instead of seeking financial guidance to climb out of debt, a person expects that “God will take care of me.”
Not only do those people put themselves and their families at risk, but they also seem to think they can dictate to God what He should do.
While prayer is always a good idea, I think we are responsible for doing what we can, also. I realize that sometimes situations and solutions are totally out of our control, and praying for God to “take care of me” is the only option there is. An important part of faith is being willing to rely on God. I believe God does step in with miracles at times. But, I also see that God has given us abilities and resources to help others and ourselves. When we disregard those gifts and talents, I think we are being ungrateful and wasteful with what God has given us.
The hymn, “Move in Our Midst,” which Wiltschek mentions in the devotional, really speaks to me. Let’s get the lead out and git ‘er done!
Amen, Sister!