100 Days of Hopeनमूना

The Lord Answers

I was having difficulty falling asleep. Having spent a week helping form Savings and Credit Associations in rural Zambia, I was wondering how it was possible that I, a middle class American, could expect such privilege. How could I be so fortunate as to be visiting my 20th country at the age of 22? Why had I experienced so much while my host family had to survive through subsistence farming?

And I know it’s cliché, but how could a loving God create such an uneven playing field?

I stepped outside into the cool winter’s air. Looking up at the sky, I was lost in the starry expanse of the Milky Way. One does not get to view stars like that in much of the United States. As I stared, I could only think one thing—why?

I then remembered a side of God that is not frequently referenced, a side that Job was unfortunate enough to experience the full force of, the sarcastic side (Job 38-42). Seeing the vast sky, I could feel the weight of God’s knowledge pressing down on my questions.

What became clear to me is that regardless of whether or not I feel deserving, I have been put in a certain position. My role is not to argue against it, dream of something different, or suggest those who might be better suited. My role is to take full advantage of all that I have been given and use it to the best of my ability. Out of an infinite number of alternative scenarios, God trusted me with the exact one that I am in. And as He trusted me, I must trust Him.

I would encourage you to read all of Job 38-42, but be warned, God’s sarcastic side has some bite.

Prayer: Lord, help me not to question the situation I am in or wish for something different. Instead, help me to take full advantage of the life you have given me to further your Kingdom.