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
- 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.