Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Eastern Georgia
Our most common question: “Why?” Certainly, that is often, often, asked by young children as any parent can confirm.
I’d heard, and even thought, that God doesn’t answer our “why?” questions. But He does.
God answers “why?” with Himself
In more than 125 verses, God tells Job that He is God and Job is not! God tells Job He is Creator, He knows everything, He is in control of war and battle, gives wisdom, deals with the wicked, and on and on. And on. Whatever is under the whole heaven is Mine. (Job 41:11)
Job was satisfied and repented, I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted … I repent in dust and ashes. (Job 42:2,6)
God answers “why?” by telling us how it benefits us
Our suffering and trials benefit us.
Trials, the testing of our faith, produces endurance, And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:4)
We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Alrighty then!
Our humanness
We ask God; Why do I (or a friend or family) have cancer? Why did I lose my job?
I doubt many ask: Why God, WHY, did I win the $2+ billion lottery?
We tend to think we don’t deserve the bad stuff, but do deserve the good stuff.
Of course, we all are sinners. We all deserve God’s wrath. If we got what we deserve, we’d be heading to hell. But God, in His great mercy, provided a savior, and if we believe in Jesus Christ, we’re saved and headed to heaven. Hallelujah!
Rejoice! Pray! Give Thanks in Everything!
We are commanded to rejoice aways, pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:26-18). That includes our trials, which are controlled by our loving sovereign God, and which are for our benefit. Praise Him!
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Father, thank You for Your great wisdom and love, allowing or bringing into our lives what makes us grow in Christ, and what makes us more in His image. Help us accept what comes from your loving hand.
P.S. Our trials often benefit others as well. That’s a topic for another time.
