“Take this cup from Me.”
That was Jesus’ prayer to His Father in the Garden minutes before His betrayal. Then He prayed, “Yet not my will but Yours be done.” He viewed the “cup” of His suffering as coming from His Father’s hand even though the horrific suffering was delivered by wicked people. The intersection of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in a world where God allows evil to thrive is frustratingly mysterious beyond my ability to fully comprehend. Genesis 50:20 gives a related perspective. Looking at one side of that dilemma, an unknown author penned these words:
I will not take that bitter thrust which rent my heart today,
As from an earthly soul, though it was meant that way.
But I will look beyond the tool because my life is planned.
I take the cup my Father gives. I take it from His hand.
He knows and even thus allows these little things that irk.
I trust His wisdom and His love. Let patience have its work.
Through human means have brought the sting, I firmly take this stand.
My loving Father holds the cup. I take it from His hand.
Now those who watch may wonder why these things do not disturb.
I look right past the instrument and see my Lord superb.
The trials which would lay me low must pass through His command.
He holds the outstretched cup to me. I take it from His hand.
