Romans 8:20-21 makes a rather remarkable claim:
For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of one who subjected it, (THAT MEANS GOD IS THE ONE CAUSING FRUSTRATION)
in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.
So God causes frustration within his own created order? Which includes us? Why would he do that?
To rescue us; to "liberate [us] from bondage to decay and [bring us] into the glorious freedom of the children of God."
Which means: God frustrates you to rescue you. To deliver you from the false god of self-sufficiency and drive you to your knees in submission to him.
Addicts who continue to look in vain for a high that is as good as that first one: God frustrates you to rescue you.
Pastors who wonder why that new program/paradigm/seminar is not bringing in the growth it promised: God frustrates you to rescue you.
Young adults who set happiness as a primary goal in life and then wonder why you never achieve it: God frustrates you to rescue you.
Older adults wondering how to make the time you have count: God frustrates you to rescue you.
If you are frustrated and ill-at-ease today, then join the crowd. Chances are good that God is trying to rid you of any vestige of self-reliance.
Your frustration is God's gift to you.
