“When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”
Matthew 6:7-8
As a fisherman, one of my less-than-desirable traits (especially since I am a pastor!) is being a bit superstitious. Among anglers, this is familiar. The superstitions include everything from wearing a lucky shirt or using a particular rod and reel, to tying fishing knots the same way every time. One of the strangest superstitions I have heard is that if an angler brings bananas on a boat, he will have bad luck!
When we struggle to see and understand God’s will, we often practice our own version of Christian superstition. We look for signs in our lives that we think must surely be from Him. When we are hoping for something, we may begin to do things to bring God’s favor to us, acting as if our worship, our prayers, or our obedience will make it all turn out well for us.
When we fall into this trap, we are forgetting that God knows all that we need or don’t need. He is working out His perfect will in our lives at all times. Remember that His will comes about in His sovereignty, regardless of our “lucky tricks” to make it happen.
When we struggle to see and understand God’s will, we often practice our own version of Christian superstition. We look for signs in our lives that we think must surely be from Him. When we are hoping for something, we may begin to do things to bring God’s favor to us, acting as if our worship, our prayers, or our obedience will make it all turn out well for us.
When we fall into this trap, we are forgetting that God knows all that we need or don’t need. He is working out His perfect will in our lives at all times. Remember that His will comes about in His sovereignty, regardless of our “lucky tricks” to make it happen.
Scripture Focus
Matthew 6:5-8
Insight
When you are tempted to practice a superstitious faith, remember that God’s will is not only good, but it also is always good for you.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Chronicles 31-32
- Psalm 23
- Mark 2
