God hides His face, in one interpretation, because He is waiting for the spirit of prayer to be poured out before delivering the Church, suggesting a deliberate delay rather than abandonment.
This concept stems from interpretations of scriptures, particularly passages that discuss God seemingly withdrawing His presence. Here's a breakdown:
-
Delay for a Purpose: The idea is that God's "hiding" isn't due to a lack of care or power, but rather part of a larger plan. He's waiting for a specific condition to be met – in this case, the outpouring of prayer from believers.
-
Psalm 10:17 Interpretation: This Psalm speaks to God hearing the desires of the humble and strengthening their hearts. The reference highlights a connection between persistent prayer and God's eventual intervention.
-
Not Hastening to Deliver: The assertion that God "does not have a mind to make haste to deliver the Church" implies a calculated timing. This doesn't mean God is indifferent, but rather that He operates according to His own schedule and purposes. The delay itself could serve to strengthen faith, build character, and prepare the Church for a more significant deliverance.
It's crucial to note that other interpretations exist regarding God's perceived "hiding." These interpretations often relate to:
- Sin: Sometimes, a sense of God's absence is attributed to personal or collective sin that creates a barrier between humanity and the divine.
- Testing: Periods of perceived absence can be seen as trials or tests of faith, designed to refine and strengthen believers.
- Perspective: Our limited human perspective may not always allow us to understand God's actions or presence, leading to a feeling of abandonment when, in reality, He is still working.
In summary, one perspective suggests God hides His face, not out of neglect, but to allow for the full outpouring of prayer before enacting His divine plan. This perspective emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and trust in God's timing.
