So often when we get sick or something bad happens, we want to know “why?” We struggle with our past, wondering what we might have done or we struggle with the fact that others that don't appear as “good” as us seem to have an easier time of things. God doesn’t need to answer the question of “why?” It’s really irrelevant if you think about it. What good will knowing “why” really do? Will it change the situation, will it truly comfort us? It’s not likely.
Instead of asking “why,” I am learning to ask “what?” God, WHAT do you want me to do as a result of this sickness? WHAT can I do to bring glory to you through this? WHAT good can you make out of this?
The answers to those questions are actionable – we can do something. As Christians, we know that God doesn’t allow a hurt to touch our lives that He isn’t fully aware of and/or fully capable of taking care of.
Jeremiah 29:11-12
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
God is in complete control – He’s got PLANS for me! I know that this disease is part of His plan. I must ask “what” for God’s plans to be put into motion. Don’t waste your time asking “why?” If you’re really ready for the answer, ask God what He wants to work in you.
Father, thank you that you have a plan for me. I know that sometimes you use circumstances to bring us to our knees so that all we can do is look to you and it is then that you show us your plan. Thank you that you are so much bigger than our circumstances.
