God works in mysterious ways….  I have heard this mantra my entire life.  Most of the time it is said when something terrible or unexplainable happens and the onlookers are at a loss of what to say to the victim.  Basically, it’s said when we don’t know the why, the how and the what for.

I actually don’t understand why it’s not okay to not know some things.

Honestly, this is where God gets a raw deal.  He gets blamed for our disobedience, sinfulness and rebellion.  He is held responsible for making bad things happen or for not carrying us ‘the good people’ out of harms’ way.

However, who of us is without sin?  Definitely, not me; as my family and friends can certainly attest to this.  Nevertheless, God continues to pursue me and woo me with His constant love, joy and hope.

Recently, God gave me the initiative, desire and time to sit and watch a movie that speaks to the idea that He truly does work in mysterious and WONDERFUL ways.

If you haven’t seen the movie, Soul Surfer, I recommend you watch it as soon as you can get your hands on it!  What an inspiration!   I sure wish some of us with two arms would have the remarkable attitude that Bethany Hamilton has with her one arm (the other arm was taken by a shark- just in case you didn’t know).

WOW!  God sure does work in mysterious ways!!  Who knew someone could surf with only one arm and still thank Jesus Christ, her Savior, for the many blessings in her life.  More astonishing is that Bethany said she wouldn’t change the course of her life (a.k.a. the shark attack) because she has been able to embrace more people with one arm than she would have ever been able to with two.  Stunning and admirable.

Unfortunately, Bethany is the exception instead of the rule for handling difficult circumstances.  Her story made me question:  Why don’t we trust God?

The answer must be in the mysterious part!  😮

Our reality is that life happens all the time; some good, some bad, some amazing, some horrific.  However, it is our responses to the situations we find ourselves in that make us better or worse…not necessarily the event.  And, the only way to have results that are worth having is to be in the presence of God and to trust Him.

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”  Philippians 4:12-13

We don’t know the plans God has for us.  We don’t have a clue what the mysterious ways of God are, but that is A-OK.  Why you ask?

1. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  Matthew 11:28-29
2. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”  Romans 8:18
3. “He gives strength to the weary, and young men stumble and fall; 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 40:29-31

Be encouraged!  God is bigger than any situation we might find ourselves facing!!!  Trust Him and follow Him and you will be amazed by His mysterious ways!!

What helps you trust God completely?

Some Wisdom for Today:  Proverbs 2:6 – For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.