Saturday, July 28, 2018

Is Life Fair?




We all know someone who has done their utmost to serve others, or have been generous with their time and money. They've been kind and see the best in people. They work hard and accept struggles graciously. And then disaster strikes.

There are also those who spend most of their time thinking about themselves, who withhold their blessings. They cheat on their taxes, overcharge customers. They can't be bothered to help others. Sometimes they are unkind. And yet, they are blessed financially and socially.

Why?

Do we have to accept this injustice and simply move on? I tell myself, God knows what He's doing ... doesn't He? 

Let's see ... does He? 

There was Joseph whose brothers turned against him and sold him into slavery. He lived in Potiphars house for eleven years and was unjustly thrown into prison for at least two years. How could this happen? He was an honorable man and loved God. 

Two of my personal heroines are Helen Keller and Corrie Ten Boom. Helen Keller, as an infant, suffered an illness that left her blind and deaf. Corrie Ten Boom and her sister put their lives in jeopardy to protect the innocent during Hitler's reign, only to find themselves in a prison camp where Corrie's sister died. 

I guess life isn't fair. 

But take a closer look. Joseph continued to be faithful and trusted God. Because of his faithfulness he was released from prison and eventually ruled in Egypt. Helen Keller grew up to be an influential woman who touched the lives of thousands, perhaps millions, as did Corrie Ten Boom.

Their suffering blessed others, like you and me. They offered much. They gave much. And changed lives.

So, what should we say when we are the afflicted? We come up against something like cancer or financial ruin, the loss of a child. What then? 

James 1:2-3 says, "Count it all joy, my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have it's full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." 

Should we cheer when we suffer? Not necessarily. (I'm not very good at that.) But there is joy to be found in troubled times. Our sorrows provide an opportunity for change and growth that can touch others. If we entrust our lives to God's care we become part of His blessing to the world.

So yes, I guess life can be unfair some of the time, but with God in the midst it is also part of the beauty and wonder. 

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

3 comments:

  1. James 1:2-4 is my life verse. We will only know how our faithfulness to God affected others fully in heaven . But that it matters and that there is purpose is everything(hugs). Nothing is wasted praise Jesus

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  2. Well said, Miss Bonnie. Your blog was in my spam folder. I don't know why but it is the first one that I have received in a long while. I enjoy reading them. Have a great week. Love, Barb

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