“The crisis we need is the crisis of faith that will differentiate between true faith vs. inauthentic faith. . . . There is a crisis of faith that is endured that turns out to be an essential part of the discipleship process. It’s part of making your faith your own.”- Lina AbuJamra
In Chapter 6 (“Is This the Normal Christian Life?”) of Fractured Faith, Lina AbuJamra redefines disillusionment. First, Lina observes, that what we refer to as ‘disillusionment’ in our faith is often simply the normal Christian life. Certainly, a crisis of faith may involve pain. However, if you know that a crisis is coming, you may be able to navigate it more smoothly.
Yet, Lina asserts, we wrestle with God over and over again. But each time leads us to a deeper knowledge of who God is. And a deeper dependence on Him. Therefore, Lina defines a disciple as one’s who’s counted the cost of following Christ, yet finds Him their greatest treasure. Above all, this kind of discipleship never happens without a struggle. Because this kind of Christianity demands a fight. It’s that important!
In addition, Lina explains:
“We wrestle with God in an attempt to do what we want. We fight with God until we’re worn out, and then, just like Jacob, we hang on by a thread. It’s only when we’ve got nothing left to fight with that we let go and realize that God’s still got His hold on us. . . . Grace calls us by our real names, sees our God-given identities, and opens our eyes to see God’s presence and goodness in our despair.” (emphasis Lina’s)
In conclusion, Lina views wrestling with God as an exercise that helps strengthen faith. Rather than a sign of weak faith. Furthermore, each yes to God:
- brings you closer to freedom
- yields a harvest of fruitfulness
- sets the foundation for the rest of your life
- brings you one step closer to home
Today’s question: Over what issues do you tend to wrestle with God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Intellectual knowledge of God’s presence?”
