We begin a new series of studies on the subject, "A Theology of Prayer." The focus of our studies is The Book of Psalms. Even more specifically, we will be studying the Psalms where the authors pondered the problem of the existence of evil in the world. The presence of evil in the world puzzled even the prophets of God. Jeremiah and Habakkuk may be cited as typical examples of the prophets who struggled to comprehend how God could allow wicked people to perpetrate so much evil- against the nation of Israel in particular. They were not alone in their struggles. The psalmists also had a hard time comprehending the powerful presence of evil in the world. Why had God allowed this to happen? How would He deal with wicked people? Surely, He must have a perfect divine plan to contain the spread of evil. Surely that plan included the eradication of the problem of evil existing and invading the world!
STRUGGLES
IN PRAYER
This series of studies is entitled "Struggles in Prayer" simply because
of the fact that all God's servants have at one time or another struggled with
the problem of the existence of evil! The psalms offer a variety of helpful
insights.
1. Practical Insights
The psalmists approach is always practical. They see faith in God and life on
earth as practically inseparable! The theoretical approach was not for them!
2. Human-Emotional Approach
As we read the psalms, we cannot but hear the broken heart of the psalmists
as they poured out their hearts to God in prayer. There were times when their
ready pens would create beautiful hymns of prayer and thanksgiving. But there
were also times when the psalms depict hearts that were rent asunder in grief
and pain!
3. Deep Theology Involved
as well.
We must not imagine that the Psalms offer very little theology! This is not
the case. There is rich and profound theology to be found in the Psalms.
THE
PRESENCE OF EVIL IN THE WORLD TODAY!
There is much evil in the world at large today! One cannot find a country in
the world today, where evil is not present! Does the question of evil trouble
you too? Plan to study ATOP- STRUGGLES IN PRAYER (Psalms). Be challenged to
pray much more!
AN
IMPORTANT STATEMENT OF TRUTH TO START WITH!
Psalm 2 is an excellent Psalm to ponder over as we commence our study of the
problem of wickedness existing in the world. David's theology of God enabled
him to see beyond the presence of evil! A solid theology of God is most necessary
if we are succeed in our attempts to grapple with our understanding of the problem
of evil in the world! Let us be absolutely assured that no matter how powerful
the presence of evil may seem to be, God's sovereign will cannot be overcome
by evil! God still rules the world!
~ Pastor
Charlie Tan ~
Released 7th December 2003, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore