Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
I know many Biblical figures have asked the aforementioned question. I'm sure David asked it from the years he was forced to run from Saul's wrath. Or maybe Paul asked the same question when he was trying to share the Gospel to an unbelieving generation. And lastly our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ wanted to have the cup removed from Him and end His fate He was set to face for all mankind. But in the question there is also an answer.
I can say candidly that for years I've asked the same question multiple times on my Christian journey. Why do I feel this way? Why are people so mean to me? Why did this not turn out like I thought it would? Why am I acting this way? Simply--why? When I had to get to the root of it all I remembered the verse and I'll paraphrase, but all things work together for the good of those called according to His purpose. In that revelation I got the answer to my why ; and in turn my why became a "what".
You see, not knowing how to handle a particular situation will leave you guessing: why is this happening? Instead, we should be inquiring God about what is it that you are showing me here, Lord?
I can answer my own questions now and for years I felt mocked, teased, and harassed in so many areas of life. I wasn't the best person or all the way put together and I wanted to know why that was a problem, too. I became paranoid and it led to me losing control. I was under the pressure of wanting to know why and what was happening until recently I realized not all of my confusion was in vain. In that lost time I was angry with myself, with my enemies, and with God for not delivering me from my mistreatment. I thought maybe I wasn't doing something right. I felt like everyone had the upper hand on me. And I wanted to know why God didn't spring into action to my defense.
But I thought about that verse (Romans 8:28) and it dawned on me. This is not happening to me but it is happening for me. You see, in tough and unexplainable times you have the advantage to stretch yourself and rediscover your purpose. I can now look at situations differently and face them rather than asking: why is this happening, but how can I be a solution?
So instead of seeking an answer to a difficult problem-- be the answer! Tell your disgruntled neighbor about how Jesus helped you. Share your faith in unbelievable ways. And don't be afraid to ask: LORD, why not me?
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