“Whatchu talkin’ ‘bout Willis?!” is the infamous catchphrase of Arnold Jackson to his older brother Willis on the television show “Diff’rent Strokes.” Arnold would ask the question when something out of the ordinary was stated, especially if it concerned the boys and their well-being. Considering they were Black boys from Harlem, adopted by a wealthy white man, Mr. Drummond, it stands to reason why Arnold would pose the question. Such an arrangement was unheard of in those times. Somehow, some way, it worked. Ironically enough, most times Arnold misunderstood what had been said, and Willis would follow up with an explanation.
How many times has God had to give clarity on matters concerning our well-being? The better question is why does God have to explain? I know we read that in all our getting, we’re to receive understanding (Proverbs 4:7). I also know that we say we trust God. We say we believe God. We say we know all things work together for our good, yet we forget the part that says those same things work for God’s glory (Romans 8:28). We say we know God’s plans are to prosper us, not to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11). We find ourselves quoting the “good” and “exciting” parts of the scripture — the parts that will cause us to holler and shout. However, when it comes to the core of the matter, being the foundation of our faith, for real, we at some point or another find ourselves being moved by the wind of doctrine called doubt.
Again, the question is why? Why do we find ourselves questioning if God can do it, especially when we know God has provided, healed, delivered, etc., time and again? Why would this time be any different? Why do we find ourselves saying, “Whatchu talkin’ ‘bout God?” More than likely, it’s because our faith is being stretched to believe on another level. It’s because there is a part of us that wants to believe God to do more than what we believed God to do before. And, that belief is going to cause us to ante up our actions. James 2:20 reminds us faith without works is dead. In other words, if we want to activate our faith, we have to do some work. The more faith we want to activate, the more work we have to do. Could it be the reason we question God is not because we don’t believe God can do it, but because we know we have to bring something to the table? Things that make you go “hmmm.”
As we continue on in this new year, instead of making resolutions for better bodies and increased bank accounts only, let’s add to the list a greater sense of diligence and fuel to go with our faith. Let’s speak about and be about it. Can I get a witness?
Rae Karim is pastor at Northwood Christian Church. She can be reached at Rae@Indyncc.org.
