8.7.26 – Arguing with God

This week's Torah portion is all about vision—Re'eh. Moses starts out by emphasizing that we can see (re'eh) the blessings and the curses in life (Deut. 11:26–28). In Hebrew thought, the words for blessing (berachah) and a pool or reservoir (bereichah) share a close linguistic and symbolic resonance. A blessing is not just a passive gift; like a water reservoir, it connects you to a primary source so that abundance flows outward to nourish others. Blessings come as a result of obedience, and curses come as a result of disobedience. That is a given. The question I want to address this morning is: why the curses? Why do we choose curses? Why disobedience? During my recent travels to Massachusetts, I found myself arguing with God... really!?

Personally, I argue and strive (rib) with God when things do not go my way. Is that okay to argue with Him? Does it bring a curse? The answer to the first question is yes, and then a definite maybe. Huh?

When we strive against anyone, it is either in physical or verbal combat, arguing a case in court, plotting against someone, or just complaining. When our arguing (rib) is like a court case, the Lord God welcomes it, and it leads to clarification—like asking the question "why" in order to get to the bottom of the fundamental issue.

This is the technique that God often employs when He analyzes Israel's covenant life. He brings a lawsuit against them because they have broken their contract. If the convicting facts are not there, then He dismisses the case (John 8:11). Normally, God is not dealing on an individual basis when it comes to these court cases; He is usually dealing with His new creation, Israel (Isa. 45:9). Individuality is Satan's specialty (Rev. 12:10).

God points out that He made Israel (Isa. 43:1, 15; 2 Cor. 5:17). He is its Creator, and as Creator, He determines what Israel will be. Therefore, Israel does not have legal grounds to argue (rib) for independent status; and for those in covenant relationship with the Lord, neither do we.

The covenant relationship is serious with God! Hence, the blessings and curses let us know whether we are letting our light shine so that men may see (re'eh) our good works (Matt. 5:16) or hiding it under a basket (Matt. 5:15). God does not just let things slide. In reality, blessings and curses are really not for us; they are for those who are walking the same path.

The challenge that we—speaking of me, myself, and I—must overcome is: do I recognize Him as the Potter and myself as the clay (Isa. 45:9; 64:8; Jer. 18:4; Rom. 9:21)?

God does have a purpose for each of us. We all fit into His plans. But they are His plans, not ours (Jer. 29:11; Ps. 33:11; Isa. 46:10; 55:8–12). We have no legal right to claim otherwise. In fact, arguing for independent status is not only foolish, it is dangerous. The Potter can always start over. This kind of rib is borderline idolatry.

So, back to our original question: can I strive (rib) with God? Of course you can. You can fight over your submission. You can complain about your circumstances. You can contend concerning your understanding of His words. God likes a good argument. But never, never imagine that you have the right to tell Him how He must treat you and what He must do for you or with you. After all, you and I are simply clay pots with mouths and hearts for His use.

Shabbat Shalom!
Alan

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