Of course, by nature we are all inquisitive. That thirst for knowledge and understanding is God-given and invaluable for our growth. But, in light of God’s sovereignty, there’s one question that I’m learning not to ask. That question is, “Why?”

I’m not talking about why in terms of general knowledge, such as “Why do tornadoes often dissipate over bodies of water?” or “Why are kittens born blind?” I’m talking about the why of suffering, injustice, and heartbreak. I’m talking about the why we often ask God when things get tough. 

I’m not suggesting that we should never ask God why. Ask away! We need to express our feelings, and I sincerely believe God does not mind. After all, His only Son expressed anguish over feeling forsaken while suffering on the cross. I am suggesting, however, that the question may be futile.

The question may be futile because even if God were to explain in detail His purpose for our circumstances, chances are good His reasoning and plan would be far above our ability to comprehend. The big picture can really only be fully grasped by the omniscient Author and Master Planner. We are weak and finite and so is our perspective. God’s answer may not satisfy our need to know.

Most of us have a lot of why moments in our lives. I know I questioned why when my niece Tami died at age nine. I’ve struggled with that question countless times when it comes to my long struggle with chronic pain. When my niece Jenny broke her neck in an accident and faced life in a wheelchair, “Why?” was the first thing I asked my God. In the quiet moments that followed my asking, I heard a gentle, “Trust me,” which never fails to be His response.

If we wander in the desert named Trial long enough, we will be tempted to focus on the why. If we’re not careful, that focus will dominate every waking moment and eventually drive us to Distraction. I’ve been to Distraction many times. It’s not a happy place, and I have no desire to return.

Instead, I try to remind myself that our sovereign, caring, and loving Heavenly Father makes no mistakes. There are no lapses in sovereignty wherein He says, “Oops, forgot to keep you covered; I have a lot on my plate.” This gives me confidence that we are safely in His care. 

Injustice, whether real or perceived, happens. This is a fact of life for all people. Our omnipotent, sovereign God works all things together to bring to fruition His glorious plan, a plan that will delight His children beyond imagination when fully revealed. That’s enough for me.

When it comes to injustice, the better question is, “Why not?”

This is rarely heard because we live in an entitlement-minded, me-centered society that touts prosperity and fun times as signs of blessing and good living. When fun times and prosperity don’t happen, envy and bitterness often take root and sprout.

You’ll likely hear, “What about me?” This attitude is everywhere, brought to you by the same folks who think a college education is a guaranteed right, who take up two parking spaces to protect their car, who crash the express lane with a grocery cart full of items, who talk or text in the theater while the movie is playing, who tailgate until you’re almost forced off the road – you know the ones; it’s all about them.

Unfortunately, my generation of parents might be to blame. Today’s youth are overindulged and believe the world revolves around them. We’ve failed them by not teaching humility, to live with less, and to work hard to climb above tough times. Tough-love parenting builds character.

Perspective changes everything.

Would you rather live in Darfur or any other Third World country and have your starving child die in your lap? How about earthquake-ravaged Haiti? Were you one of the families torn apart when the tornado destroyed Joplin, Missouri? If not, be thankful. You can view any number of true-to-life war documentaries and, hopefully, feel grateful that the horror of war hasn’t touched our homeland since the Civil War.

Do you have eyesight? Hearing? Can you walk? Can you breathe without assistance? Are you cancer free? If so, millions of people consider you quite fortunate indeed.

(For even greater perspective, read “Hymns from The Zone” and “Not Alone in The Zone” from “My Beginnings in Grace.”)

Hardship is an equal opportunity stalker and a fact of life. Trial will either make us bitter or it will make us better. We choose how to respond.

My process of trying to find joy in my own life included a close look at Jesus’ own precious original 12 followers. All suffered, and all but one died a horrific martyr’s death. What makes me think I deserve a life of comfort, convenience, and good times? Last time I checked, “special” is not stamped on my forehead. Nope. There’s no reason why I should expect a thing. So the better question must be, “Why not me?”

Christ follower James tells us in Scripture that trials test our faith and develop perseverance. Through this perseverance, we are matured and completed in our faith, not lacking anything.

I want to persevere, so I’m learning to pitch my tent in Camp Trust.

The best is yet to come.

Joy in Jesus,

Jacquee