God’s Reliability

Friday, August 12, 2016

Is God untrustworthy? Does he deceive people? That is what Islam teaches. The Quran says that God is cunning: “They were sly, and God was sly. But God is the best of those who are sly”^[1]; “Only losers feel secure from God’s cunning.”^[2]

Abu-Bakr was the first male convert to Islam and the Prophet’s closest companion. He later became the first Muslim caliph after Muhammad. He once swore he would never trust God’s cunning, even if he already had one foot in paradise. He meant he would not feel safe from God’s craftiness, unless both his feet were inside paradise!^[3]

Prayer

Glory and honor, power and majesty to you, Lord God, our Father, the only true God. You are faithful. Your ways are perfect, blameless and just. You do no wrong (Deuteronomy 32:4; Revelation 15:3). There is no deceit in you (1 Samuel 15:29; Hebrews 6:18).

You do not change your mind (Numbers 23:19; James 1:17). You are the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

You are righteous in everything you do (Psalm 145:17). You are honorable. Your Word is true (Proverbs 30:5). Your promise is reliable (Psalm 18:30). You keep your covenant forever (Psalm 105:8).

Day by day, you manifest your mercy and love toward us. Indeed, great is your faithfulness (Lamentations 3:23).

Help Muslims to catch a glimpse of your faithfulness, to experience your loving-kindness and receive your free grace. Help them know you as you are: the self-giving God, loving Savior, and heavenly Father.

In the most high name of Jesus Christ, your Son, my Lord and Savior. Amen.

Promise

“I shall not violate my covenant, nor alter what I have promised. I have sworn by my holiness once and for all, I shall not break my word to David” (Psalm 89:34-35, REB).