Last week I listened to a sermon by John Piper called What Is the Recession For?. I was exceedingly challenged by some of the things he said, not just in terms of the recession and any present financial difficulties, but also from the point of view of general suffering and troubles.
Life for me and my family is quite challenging at the moment. I have various health problems, which seem to be increasingly serious, and am finding work very stressful at present. As a result, I often find myself crying out to God for healing and/or a change in my job situation. One of the things that God particularly impressed on me, while listening to John Piper speaking, was that I also need to use this time as an opportunity to seek God. In fact that’s actually what really matters at this time.
Don’t misunderstand me – praying about my job and health are good things and I will certainly consider doing so! But, if they, are the focus of all my praying, they may reveal that my identity or idols are in my health or job. What I need more than anything is to know Jesus more; to hear his voice more. If I have that then the rest doesn’t matter half so much.
If I was to have the best health I’ve ever had, but not know Jesus; then I’ve settled for second best. Similarly with my job situation. In fact,if it was a straight choice between knowing Jesus more and having great health; If I could only have one or the other then I would be extremely foolish to prioritise my health. Even though that would help at work and would also make life at home much easier.
As I say, that doesn’t mean I won’t pray about my job or my health. It does, however, mean that my praying needs to reflect knowing Jesus, hearing his voice and enjoying his precence as my highest priority.