The Why

As I  sit down at the keyboard in an attempt to bring a message for the season you may be walking through, I find myself writing about seasons I am going through as well. As I write these words I feel the Lord speaking to me as well as to you. I just want you, the reader, to know, “I have been there; I AM there.”

 why

adverb

1. for what reason or purpose.
   "why did he do it?"

In life we go through things that leave us scratching our heads and asking ourselves, “Why?”  It might be lost jobs, relationships, friends and even family. We walk through seasons of uncertainty and sorrow and we have a hard time understanding exactly the reason for it all. We throw pity parties and we say, “Woe is me.” Sometimes we even dare to forget everything good in our lives. Sometimes I find myself wondering, “Why,” and you may find yourself in similar situations. 

Let’s take a look at the above example of, “why,” used in a sentence. “Why did He do it?” What a heavy question. Why did Jesus die on the cross for us? Why did God let His only son die for the sin of the world? John 3:16 gives us a life-giving answer: “For God so loved the world, that he gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” The most selfless act in history was done for every generation of people to come, some of which will never believe in the amazing God we serve, all because of the unconditional, never-ending love of God. 

Now let’s go back to the beginning, “why?” It’s easy to ask but the short and simple answer is, “for the glory of God.” He is showing you things, removing people from your life, walking you through seasons that are not so comfortable because He loves you, He wants to know you more and in the end it will bring glory to our Mighty King who deserves it all. So a couple of perspective changers for the next time you find yourself in a less than optimal situation. Instead of asking, “Why?” ask, “What?”

“What are you teaching me, Lord?”

“What do I need to let go of God for your glory?”

“What are you trying to use me for?”

It sounds easy, perfectly placed on a neatly typed page but it is not a simple task. We are selfish by nature so if you struggle with this, it is going to take some practice. This life is more intricate than just what we see; God is working! So maybe it’s time to shift your focus and broaden your perspective.

Dealing with Frustration and Anger

As I've gotten older it’s become harder to keep calm in situations that aren’t ideal. Frustration with certain people or places can fester and create a hostile and negative mindset. Feeling sudden anger and frustration are completely normal but we shouldn't cling to those feelings for a long time. It only causes more issues and goes directly against God’s wishes.

Psalm 37:8 “Don’t give into worry or anger; It only leads to trouble.” Acting on your anger leads to decisions you might regret later on. When we’re upset our mind isn't in the best condition to think before we speak. It’s important when you're upset to take a moment to breathe and pray that God gives you patience and peace. After taking a moment to breathe, you can choose to act in kindness instead of anger. Whatever situation or person that has made you angry, take a moment to pray for that person to be blessed or to pray for positive things over any conflict you might have. Sometimes you might even be given the opportunity to do something nice for someone you feel has wronged you; you should take that chance to choose kindness. Romans 12:21 “Don’t let evil get the best of you, But conquer evil by doing good.”

Every choice we make has consequences especially the ones we make out of pettiness. We've all heard the term, what goes around comes around and it’s true. Wishing ill on others or even thinking negatively of someone has a direct effect on our walk with the Lord.  Matthew 5:22 “But I promise you that if you are angry with someone, you will have to stand trial. If you call someone a fool, you will be taken to court. And if you say that someone is worthless, you will be in danger of the fires of hell.” Proverbs 29:22 tells us that not only should we be cautious of our own actions, we should be keeping people who are quick to anger or judge at a distance. People that get frustrated and often take their anger out on others cause fights and problems.

When I was younger my mom used to tell me that I should never allow myself to go to bed angry and it wasn't until later that I realized her saying originated from a bible verse. Ephesians 4:26 “Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun set on your anger, and do not make room for the devil.” We can be angry but letting anger and frustration fester only makes room for the devil to do evil.