Counsels on Social Issue

Counsel #3 — Trusting God In The Face Of Unmet Expectations

Picture: Counsel #3 — Trusting God In The Face Of Unmet Expectations CSI 116.1

Although we know humans are fallible, we often expect our churches, workplaces, service providers, and government systems to meet our needs. When expectations go unmet, anger and bitterness can follow—forgetting that such failures are inevitable in systems built by imperfect people. So, where can we find true reliability? CSI 116.2

In Isaiah's vision, men search for a stone to serve as the cornerstone of a building, one that can withstand immense pressure and fit perfectly. He witnesses the discovery of a rejected stone that the builders initially overlooked. This stone represents Christ, who was rejected by His own people because His true identity did not align with their perception of who they thought He should be. However, Jesus, believing He was the Son of God as evidenced in Scripture, stood unwaveringly in who He was, even when His true nature was not apparent to others. CSI 116.3

“So, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.’” Isaiah 28:16 NIV CSI 116.4

“So long have men worshiped human opinion and human institutions that almost the whole world is following after idols.” Ellen White in Prophets and Kings, p. 86 CSI 116.5

Reflect: How does trusting in God help us navigate disappointment in human institutions and rely on His steadfastness to respond with resilience, patience, and wisdom amid challenges?^[165] CSI 116.6