Rain, Rain, Go Away
April 8, 2008
The rain threw everything off today. Things have been progressing rather nicely on the rebuilding of our home, but I have been very eager to be re-settled in a permanent home. So even though the project has been moving relatively quickly, it still feels like it is taking forever. Today a lot was scheduled to be done, but the key word is “scheduled”. The rained delayed everything. Some people are probably more disposed towards grumbling and murmuring, but everyone does it more than they think. As I heard the rain beat against the house last night and woke to drenching rains, I knew my hopes for progress this day were all being washed away - literally. I think I said “stupid rain” several times.
“And the people complained in the hearing of the LORD about their misfortunes, and when the LORD heard it, his anger was kindled, and the fire of the LORD burned among them and consumed some outlying parts of the camp.” (ESV Numbers 11:1)
I knew what I was really doing. I wasn’t cursing the rain, I was angry with God because He is the one who controls the rain. And I also remembered that God doesn’t take such complaining lightly. Ultimately, the complainer says, “Lord, I don’t like how you rule the world…” Shockingly arrogant isn’t it? It is helpful to be reminded that a Personal, loving, and good God orders the affairs of our life. The most appropriate response to a day like this is a cheerful submission. I hope you learn a lesson from me today. I had to learn it again from ancient Israel.