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“Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust…” Psalm 40:4a (NIV)

Have you ever found yourself asking God WHY? Why did that prayer go unanswered?  Why did tragedy strike?  Why did God remain silent?  As I look over my life most of my “why’s” seem to surface when God’s plans deviated from MY plans or expectations.

In Scripture there is one story in particular which brings the question “WHY?” to the forefront of my mind.  It is the story of Hosea who was a man of God living in a day when Israel was turning from their faith.   And although we might think God should have rewarded Hosea abundantly for his life of obedience, the fact is Hosea got dealt what we might call “a bad hand.”

Rather than abundant blessings, God gave Hosea a wife, Gomer, made famous for her poor homemaking skills (and wayward vocational efforts).  Was it fair?  NO.  But, I’m not so sure that God ever intended for “fair” to be the barometer by which we measure life’s circumstances.

In fact to demand “fair” is really like reducing God to a cosmic vending machine.  Just put in a few of the right things and then PRESTO…we get what we want…or at least what we deserve.  The problem is that God never promised “Fair.”   This is a difficult concept to embrace, but as Hosea’s story exemplifies life comes to us on God’s terms not our own.    And when those terms do not match the décor of our rosy expectations, they are still Holy terms.  So if you are asking “WHY,” join me in praying for the grace to stand in faith, even when we cannot see or understand the terms of God’s plan.

“Lord, please grant us the strength and grace today to trust You – especially when life does not seem fair.  Help us to rely on Your goodness rather than what we see or feel.

For His Glory
Claudia Dempsey
TRBC Coffee Break