We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
God’s Sovereignty
When we reflect on why things happen, we must acknowledge God’s sovereignty. He is in control, orchestrating every detail of our lives. In times of uncertainty or distress, it can be soothing to trust that God has a divine plan that unfolds according to His perfect will. Regardless of how challenging circumstances may seem, we can rely on the assurance that each event serves a purpose designed by our Almighty Father. His wisdom surpasses our understanding, and everything that happens is ultimately under His authority.
Proverbs 16:9
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. – Proverbs 16:9
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
Psalms 139:16
Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. – Psalms 139:16
Matthew 10:29-31
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. – Matthew 10:29-31
Psalms 37:23
The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. – Psalms 37:23
The Purpose of Trials
We often find ourselves questioning why difficult things happen to us. Trials can seem overwhelming, yet the Bible teaches us that there is purpose behind every challenge we face. These hardships can lead to growth, maturity, and a deeper relationship with God. As we face obstacles, we can come to appreciate the strength we gain through adversity and the character we develop, which ultimately brings us closer to God and His intentions for us. Embracing trials can transform us into better versions of ourselves.
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. – James 1:2-4
Romans 5:3-5
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. – Romans 5:3-5
1 Peter 1:6-7
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refind by fire – may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. – 1 Peter 1:6-7
2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. – 2 Corinthians 4:17
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. – Hebrews 12:11
God’s Plan for Us
Within the story of our lives, God holds a grand design for every moment we experience. Understanding this helps us to take heart during times of uncertainty, believing that even a setback is a setup for something better according to His plans. God’s purpose may not always be clear to us right away, but we can rest in His promises and trust in His goodness continually. We should remind ourselves that His plan encompasses not only ourselves but also the needs of others around us.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. – Proverbs 19:21
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. – Romans 12:2
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. – Proverbs 3:5-6
Faith in God’s Timing
We often wish for immediate clarity about the situations we face, but the beauty of faith teaches us that God’s timing is perfect. While we may feel anxious or impatient, we can hold onto the promise that everything will come together at the right moment. When we trust God, we can cultivate patience and learn to appreciate the unfolding of our life story. Reflecting on God’s timing allows us to appreciate His control over our lives, reminding us that we are never alone in our waiting.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Psalms 27:14
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. – Psalms 27:14
Isaiah 40:31
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31
Habakkuk 2:3
For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. – Habakkuk 2:3
Psalms 37:7
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. – Psalms 37:7
Learning Through Experiences
Life’s experiences shape us into who we are meant to become. Often, we find ourselves in situations that seem perplexing or frustrating, but each experience teaches us valuable lessons. As we process these events, we gain insights and perspectives that contribute to our growth as individuals. Being open to what we can learn during hard times empowers us to face challenges through understanding and faith. This approach helps to build resilience and trust in God as we know there is always a lesson behind every event we encounter.
Romans 8:18
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. – Romans 8:18
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. – James 1:5
Proverbs 4:7
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. – Proverbs 4:7
Psalms 119:71
It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. – Psalms 119:71
Job 42:5
My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. – Job 42:5
God’s Love and Compassion
Understanding the reasons why things happen often leads us back to the essence of God’s love and compassion. Everything He allows in our lives is filtered through His love, which is unconditional and transformative. When we face trials or challenges, we must remember that God is with us, holding us close. His compassion fuels our hope, guiding us through our darkest moments. He loves us deeply and intimately and engages with our struggles, leading us to the comfort and grace we often seek.
Psalms 145:9
The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. – Psalms 145:9
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. – Isaiah 43:2
Psalms 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. – Psalms 34:18
Romans 8:39
Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:39
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble. – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on why things happen, we can find comfort in understanding God’s sovereignty. He has a plan and purpose for every situation we encounter, whether pleasant or challenging. God’s timing is perfect, and His love sustains us through trying times. Each trial leads to our growth and resilience, making way for wisdom and deeper faith.
We should take solace that we are not alone in our experiences. God walks with us, ready to provide comfort and wisdom as we navigate our struggles. His desire is for us to lean on Him, gain understanding, and ultimately trust in His compassionate heart.
Let’s keep exploring biblical wisdom by looking at other topics, such as growing in grace and understanding God’s word. There is so much more to learn about how God is at work around us and within us.