“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
– Romans 8:28
Hannah and I were sitting in LAX waiting to fly to Israel when I was in seminary. I started talking to a few of Orthodox Jewish Rabbis who were also waiting for the flight. They asked about my occupation, to which I replied that I am a pastor, after which they inquired, “Are you evangelical?” They told me that they admire evangelicals because they support Israel. I explained to them that I am an evangelical, but that I am a Calvinist, or a member of the “frozen chosen,” a rare breed. One of the men asked what that meant, so I explained that we’re really obsessed with God’s sovereignty and His careful planning of everything. I then turned the tables and asked the Rabbis what they thought about these issues after I had explained it to them. Did God, for example, know we were going to meet and that I would be sitting in that particular spot at the airport? Did He make that happen if He predetermined everything and has complete control over everything? I spoke for a little longer, and when I was finished, the two men looked at me as if I were an idiot, and one of them remarked, “Who can know such things?” Let me tell you, as someone who was deep in Calvinism, hearing those remarks was extremely beneficial to me! Friend, there are certain things in life that you spend a lot of time thinking about but will never be able to fully comprehend, and that’s okay. Allowing certain things to remain a mystery is entirely okay, and it’s often vital for your faith. It’s fine if you don’t understand why you’re suffering and even if you’re angry with God for it. He’s big enough to manage all of your queries and concerns. Even better, Jesus is always on your side, even in the middle of your doubt. He hasn’t forgotten you because He is a loving Father, and He has good things planned for your life! Because of the One who controls your future, you can keep hope alive in the face of adversity! Isn’t that fantastic news? |
Prayer
Jesus, teach me to put my trust in your heart in the face of adversity. I let go of my need to always know why things happen the way they do.
Reflection
How do you feel about living in mystery? What does it mean to know God’s heart?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
I was born needing to know why!
I’m 72 now. Many, many questions are still questions, but some big ones have been answered for me in the last two years. I don’t know why!