Pray for God to Act

How often is it that I know of the followers of Christ carrying out acts that are not in the following of God’s law. I have witnessed it first hand and heard of it from others. During those times that I find myself wondering if following God’s law is even worth the work. If going against God’s law seems to not be of any consequence, and those that do seem to prosper from it, then what reasons are there for me to follow?

It is in those times of doubt that I need some action. I need to be shown that there are consequences to the actions taken or not taken. I have to, as Thomas, be shown that there is a point and not just hear about what is to come. This morning as I study the word “act” I am reading in Psalm 119 and see that praying for God to demonstrate the consequences of going against His law is not out of bounds.

“¹²⁶It is time for the LORD to act, for your law has been broken.” — Psalm 119:126 (ESV)

“When God’s ‘law has been broken’ by his own people and they seem to get away with it, it seems that God is inactive; this is a prayer that he would vindicate his own justice for the sake of his faithful.” — ESV Commentary

As seen in the verse and commentary above, praying for God to demonstrate the consequences of acting against His law is there for us as faithful servants. I should be able to see that my actions should not be rewarded for the work against God. I have to see that I will not get away with it, just as those that broke the law of God did not get away with it. This is the discipline of God for the lack of discipline in doing His work.

I have the opportunity to do God’s work and follow His law, and when I do not, I have to suffer the consequences. I pray for God to act and discipline me for my sake, as I am less likely to break His law again, and for the sake of other Christians. Others may see and know that God is just and will act when we are not acting according to God’s law.

What laws of God have you broken and not felt the consequences? Are you praying that God will act? What if you asked God to act on your law breaking for your own sake and for the sake of your fellow followers?