A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 2

Text: Psalm 2

THE NATURE OF EVIL

It is important that we have as full a comprehension as possible, concerning the nature of evil. It has many forms and expressions. It would never lie down quietly. It would attempt to make its presence known. It will attempt to impose its will on others! It would even dare to challenge the Sovereignty of God! Such is the obtrusive nature of evil!

"Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing?
The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the Lord and against His anointed, saying,
Let us break their bonds in pieces, and cast their cords from us."
Psalm 2:1-3

EXPRESSIONS OF EVIL

The expressions of evil are myriad. Let us consider a few of them mentioned in the text above.

1. Rage

Rage is one of the voluble expressions of evil! It seeks to intimidate others through expressions of rage! Nations express their rage in the form of hostile activities such as war!

2. Plots

Evil is insidious and prides itself in its cleverness. Often the worst forms of evil are carefully hatched. A great deal of time and energy is spent on plotting how evil may be perpetrated. Rash and random acts of evil are nothing compared to the deep and dark plots conceived through months of evil conniving.

3. Challenges

What is evil so incensed about? The obvious targets are the victims! But is there something else that evil seeks to challenge? The psalmist reveals an important insight here. Ultimately, evil challenges the very authority of God itself!

God in His wisdom placed certain boundaries to curb the wicked inclinations of sinful men! Good governments have sought to articulate laws which promote law and order in the country. Evil however has always fought against these laws, challenging them at every turn! It's ultimate challenge is the defiance of God, while hapless human victims are mere chattel to be disposed of without a second thought!

PRAYING WITH FAITH IN THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD

The presence of evil must drive us to seek God in prayer- but never in the spirit of despair! Prayer efforts must be made with consciousness and faith in the sovereignty of God! His reign as "Possessor of heaven and earth" (Genesis 14:19c) is never to be doubted! He sits on His throne and laughs at the foolish antics of evil men (Psalm 2:4).

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~