Nancy Guthrie’s devotional book, The One Year Book of Hope, born out of the tragedies of her own life, points us to a biblical understanding of the “why?” Sometimes we reap the natural consequences of our own choices, decisions, or behaviors. Much comes simply because we live in a broken world. Like he afflicted Job, Satan can also afflict us. His lies can haunt us too, especially when God seems silent. God Himself can allow difficulties to enter our lives for the purpose of His discipline that conforms us more fully to the likeness of His Son. Nancy’s final reason for “why?” though captures my heart, for God chooses to redeem our sufferings and difficulties. He longs to use them for His glory, and to accomplish His purposes. He desires to bring good from them, to change our now-perspective to an eternal one, and to impact the lives of others.
Nancy’s understanding of the “why?” brings us to a sense of direction for the “how do I respond?” The “why” centers most on God, and our response must center on Him as well. How often I have encouraged those I teach to remember their own personal histories with God. He has not changed! His constant presence whispers to me in my darkness and His unfailing love and compassion strengthen and enable me. His faithfulness assures me of His promises and silences the lies of Satan. The path may be littered with disappointment and unmet expectations, but God graciously makes the path walkable. Easy? No. Possible? Yes! My enemies continually taunt me, saying, “Where is this God of yours?” Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again – my Savior and my God!
– Bev
(Related Bible reading: Psalm 42:1-11)