The God of the Gaps

Psalm 68:5 – “A father for the fatherless and a judge for the widows, is God in His holy habitation.”

According to that ever-wise and always-reliable Wikipedia, ""God of the gaps" is a theological concept that emerged in the 19th century and revolves around the idea that gaps in scientific understanding are regarded as indications of the existence of God."

This short article has nothing to do with that can of worms.

Some people just have more than others. Whether it’s cars or compassion, money or motivation, some folks hold a larger measure of the good things that make life work.

For those who go through life lacking possessions, talents, or opportunities, the fight can be unbearable. They must work harder, move faster, and think smarter than everyone else. When they don’t, they pay dearly.

If we were to make some kind of chart that compared the lives of the haves and have nots that focused specifically on what the have nots are missing, many people would rise to the occasion to explain the disparity. Some would say that the have nots should stop crying about what they lack and “cowboy up.” Others would say that the rest of society is responsible for picking up the slack and providing these people with a helping hand. Others still would simply ignore something that just isn’t their problem to deal with.

But have you considered how God responds to those who lack wealth or talent or good health? The Bible tells us that He is a father for the fatherless. Don’t misunderstand; there’s a lot more going on in this statement than a lack of a parent. God provides from heaven what earth can’t provide below.

It also says that He is a judge for the widow. Don’t think of this as a judge who condemns and sentences people. During the Old Testament days, a series of wise, strong people called judges were appointed by God to rule over Israel and provide justice for the oppressed and the poor. The verse above promises justice and protection for widows. In short, the judge is the advocate for the widow.

When you put it all together, you find out something about the God we serve: He fills in the gaps. When we are lacking in something, He does one of two things. He provides what we lack, or He makes it so we don’t need it.

Remember that your God wants you to draw near to Him. To rely on Him. To trust that whatever the situation, He is working for your well-being.

Pastor Scott