Who Can Understand?

Posted on July 17, 2018 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

“’For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the LORD. ” — Isaiah 55:8

When engaging in conversation with a non-believer, it won’t be long before the question “why do bad things happen?” is asked. Now, there are theological debates and of course we have Isaiah 55:8, but to someone who doesn’t hold the Scriptures as the very word of God, that can be a weak argument.

Recently I had a conversation with my friend Rafael, he was badly injured by a tree as he attempted to cut it down last winter. As the news of the accident became known, the details were grave and we all began to pray and ask, “Why would God allow this to happen to our friend?” The difference between a believer’s “why” and a non-believer’s “why” is a believer is waiting to see how God will use this as the unbeliever is left with doubt and unanswered inquiries.

Ralph was telling me about the accident, but I was more curious how God used it. He said two of his siblings received Jesus as Savior through this “unfortunate” turn of events. WOW, but it gets better, he went on to tell me that he actually planted the tree that fell on him 40 years prior. So, I had to make sure I understood, “God had you plant a tree 40 years ago knowing you would attempt to cut it down so it would fall on you in order to rescue two of your siblings from spending an eternity in Hell?” He went on to say that there were a number of doctors that were intrigued by the reason my friend even survived since the only way to the hospital was a by helicopter, so it was 2 1/2 hours before he got to the hospital.

I began to realize that in every aspect of my life God wants to use it for His glory. The funny thing is He rarely fills me in on the details. I sometimes wonder that if I knew the path to obtain God’s plan, would I take it? If I’m honest I have probably missed a lot of opportunities to glorify God in my circumstances because I was so concerned about being uncomfortable. Lately I’ve been thinking about the path I’ve traveled and only now have become aware of the work God has done through the trials and “misfortunes” I have faced. I can tell you it would not have been the way I would have done it, but if I continue to stay in the right attitude of “Why” then it’s just a matter of time before God will reveal His purpose in the pain. “All things DO work together for good…” and I can “Count it all joy…”

I don’t know where you are right now as far as your circumstances, but when our “Why” is asked regarding the outcome instead of the discomfort, we are in a good place. Continue to pray for my friend Rafael, he has a long way to go in his physical recovery. Also continue to pray for God to use this “misfortune” for His glory. Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri, and serves with her as full time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.  

The Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 18-22 |You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

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Daily Quote: Don’t ask God why he’s allowing something to happen. Ask him what he wants you to learn and do in the midst of it. — Unknown Author

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, In those who hope in His mercy. Psalm 147:11

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