Defending God

One of Islam's most famous (or infamous) aspects is that many devotees feel compelled to defend the honor of their god and their prophet Mohammad at almost any cost. They seem to think that the responsibility is on their shoulders to make sure that no one speaks poorly of them.

As Christians, we might feel offended or annoyed when something negative is said about God, but we understand that He is the Almighty and creation does not need to come to His rescue. He has not given us that responsibility. We also know that how God acts on His behalf will not always look how we expect. Like a lamb being led to the slaughter, Jesus did not speak in His own defense, even when facing the cross.

It confuses Muslims that we claim to love God but do not feel the need to defend Him. They think this is weak and shows a lack of devotion. But perhaps it is wisdom. How could we claim to be good enough to defend the honor of the most honorable? We cry out for justice and for God to fight for His own name’s sake. We know that regardless of how things look right now, it will not stay this way. In the end, the name of Jesus will be lifted high above every other name. God Himself will see it done.

Prayer

Almighty God, thank You that You will glorify the name of Jesus above all else. Thank You that your wisdom, Your power, and Your love will achieve this. Just as You told Peter to put away his sword in the Garden of Gethsemane, would You help Muslims to see they can give up the need to defend You? They can lay this burden at Your feet and instead place their trust in You alone. Please help them learn to love you.