"WHY?"

Stuff happens! Life sometimes deals us a poor hand. It's not what we want, or what we think we deserve, but it's ours and often we ask "why?"

In fact the "why?" question is very common. We are always asking it as if having an explanation will make any sense. I believe if there were an answer, we'd be unable to understand the reason and in most cases I simply think there is no "why?"

Paul sure doesn't ask that. Although he finds himself in some really sticky situations, he never seems to fall into that doubt-trap or get the hopeless whines, "why me?" No, Paul instead recognizes his circumstances as opportunities. He may not like where he is, but he notices that God is using him wherever he happens to be. No matter where he is, Caesarea, Jerusalem, a slow boat to Rome (coming up in the next chapters of Acts) Paul uses as a means to share Christ and reveal his maturity and faith.

A great lesson for us all.

Maybe instead of asking, "why?" we could ask God, "how?" How can I use my circumstance to grow in faith? How can I use this as an opportunity to show or share my faith? How can I bless You, God, in this instance? This is the level of maturity to which we are all called. It's the level Paul shows.

Okay, so you are not there yet. I have to admit, neither am I. I, too often, find myself feeling sorry for me instead of giving God praise. Sometimes I'd rather sit in the mire of my circumstances and lament than looking at them and seeking an opportunity to work for God. It doesn't make sense, maybe ever. But I do know that when I enact my faith in such times, I find my circumstances much more tolerable and even blessings. God has been gracious to allow me certain life-lessons to help me grow, to trust, to witness, to mature.

Maybe the answer to the "why?" question is ultimately simple, "because."

And that's good enough for me.

Peace ><>
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