“…for I have learned whatever state I am, to be content.” (The Apostle Paul)

Previously we looked at Habakkuk and Asaph’s struggles to understand their situations in life. (Parts I & II) What really perplexed them was God allowing and even seeming to orchestrate some of the events that caused their anguish and challenged their faith. Again, can you relate?

Habakkuk could not grasp why God who appoints earthly authorities (Rom 13:1) would allow the worst pagans to rule. I am involved in a situation at work where the authority over myself and my coworkers is very toxic and worldly. On a daily basis we are reminded in one way or another that we have no worth or value. Our every attempt to engage with these men has been rebuffed and brings further abuse. We have gone above and outside these managers for help. And we’ve been left with mouth’s agape and looking at each other in bewilderment. Nothing has or is being done on our behalf and unbelievably our tormentors have been given even more power.

That brings us to Asaph. Remember his frustration? Why do the wicked prosper? They rule the playground of life. That is certainly the case in my workplace. Even the Christians there are divided to the point of exchanging angry words. Some site I Peter1:18-21 and outwardly champion management. A few say nothing. Others believe the unfairness and oppression must be confronted with truth. I have chosen the latter. I’ve spoken to these toxic bosses on several occasions telling them plainly that they are wrong to treat people the way they do. What would you say to me about that? Am I wrong? Are the other brethren right that choose acquiescence? Or silence? (I welcome your comments).

I do know this - I am not content and have a lot to learn. I need to learn that the Lord is in complete control of this life and the life to follow. Habakkuk and Asaph learned these things through their experiences. And I need to learn that He is sufficient to meet my needs and provide the strength for every circumstance. The Apostle Paul learned these things through his experiences.

The wonderful Francois Fenelon says this: “Patiently endure the ups and downs of everyday life. Behind every annoying circumstance, learn to see God governing all things. See that He trains you through troubling situations as well as pleasant ones. The intrusions that God sends you will no doubt upset your plans and oppose all you want. But they will also chase you toward God. Sit still before Him and yield your will to Him. Your unbending will shall begin to learn flexibility.” (The Seeking Heart)

Maybe you’re in a situation similar to mine. We need to let it chase us toward God. And when we get there we can say…for I have learned whatever state I am, to be content.