Is This a Unique Attitude Among
Christians Trying to ‘Make it’ Through
This Life On Their Own?
Introductory Remarks
I'll never forget the night I picked up a distraught man who epitomized the tendency to spurn divine aid when we need it most. Just months before, this fellow had fled a troubled past in California to launch a promising new life in Colorado, miraculously landing a coveted job with Coca-Cola. But shortly thereafter, a belated background check jeopardized everything.
Despite professing faith in Christ, with termination looming, he recoiled at the suggestion to petition God for help or wisdom, deeming his crisis too trivial to "bother" the Almighty. Yet clearly this was no small dilemma, as he verged on tears contemplating the implosion of his painstakingly rebuilt life.
I reminded him that for believers, God is no distant deity but an ever-present Father and Helper in times of need. After all, what good is claiming "Jesus loves me" if we refuse to leverage that relationship when circumstances spin out of control? Should not unwavering confidence in Christ's care compel crying out to Him, whether for direction, mercy or intervention?
Of course, God retains full sovereignty over outcomes; but
scripture urges boldly approaching His throne of grace for every necessity. I even shared an example of how God graciously rescued me after I laid my own distress before Him.
Whether battling addiction, injustice, economic woes, family breakdown or a bevy of sufferings, followers of Jesus must cast off pride that inhibits earnest prayer. Our Father knows the troubles vexing His children and is neither too preoccupied nor too holy to welcome us. But by insisting we not "bother" the Lord when our backs press hard against the wall, we essentially answer for God while enclosing ourselves in self-imposed misery.
My urgent appeal remained for this man to fulfill his side of divine friendship by honestly voicing his dilemma to the One for whom nothing is impossible. Not merely a fair-weather ally, crisis reveals the depth of our trust. And should providence grant further chances, praise would reverberate God's faithfulness. Tragically, running from the Lord proves a protagonist more dangerous than any visible foe. But in humility and brokenness, we find His transforming power awaits.
Yours truly,
Mark Mountjoy
Whenever You Are in Trouble
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