Sermon snippet: “God, Where Are You?” (or, A Theodicy Odyssey) – Part VI
INTRODUCTION – Psalm 73 – A theodicy is a defense of the ways of God in the face of the existence of evil. In this Psalm, written by Asaph, we hear the genuine heart cry of a godly person.
- HUMBLE HONESTY IS A GOOD PLACE TO BEGIN
As we see in verses 1-2, Asaph knows that the problem is with him, not with God. He knew enough about the history of Israel to recognize God’s past goodness; he lived during the reign of David and was blessed with God’s present mercies – he believed that God would keep His promises in the future (verse 24). However, Asaph particularly struggled with the ascendancy of evil people (verse 3). We can empathize with Asaph because we see politicians coming out of Washington, D.C., as rich individuals after a career of so-called public service. Powerful and wealthy people often operate under a different system of justice, one that overlooks their crimes. This problem, although very real, begins with us and our lack of knowledge (compare Isaiah 55:8-9 and John 21:15-17). Because Asaph was humble and honest, he was open to answers.
- GOD’S SANCTUARY IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE TO KNOW MORE OF GOD’S GOODNESS
Psalm 73:16-17 – If I had not attended church, I never would have met my wife; obviously, she knows that that is a good thing. Memories, good memories, build up over the years; these remembrances of things past remind us of godly mentors and good times in the Lord. Spiritual milestones such as salvation, baptism, and marriage are often found in God’s sanctuary. Music (Asaph was a musician) encourages us in God’s house and goes with us when we leave. In the immediate context of Psalm 73:16-17, Asaph finds a greater understanding of God’s ways. I Corinthians 2:9-12 assures us that we are now equipped to have an increasing comprehension of God’s Word as we study.
- GOD’S PRESENCE IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE BECAUSE GOD IS GOOD
Asaph concludes that he must “draw near to God.” This closeness is not exclusive to the sanctuary of God, nor is it exclusively in good Christian activities such as prayer, the study of God’s Word, and church attendance (all of which are good and crucial). Asaph’s answer points to a way of life, to trust in God no matter where he is or what his circumstances are.
CONCLUSION – James 4:7-10 is something of a New Testament equivalent to Psalm 73. Let us know that doubts come from Satan and that to “draw nigh to God” is a way of life which begins with a humble, honest position near God. It is a good place to be, because God is good and assures us of a good out come. Remember that Jesus, God the Son, drew near to us first, dying on the Cross for our sins that through faith in Him we are saved for eternity, saved to live in His home and to be a member of His family. Nothing else and no one else could be nearer.