““If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, Then how can you contend with horses? And if in the land of peace, In which you trusted, they wearied you, Then how will you do in the floodplain of the Jordan?”
Jeremiah 12:5 NKJV
Jeremiah asks the question I’ve asked a thousand times: “Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are those happy who deal so treacherously?” (Jeremiah 12:1 NKJV).
I don’t know why I’ve never noticed this verse before but I had to reread the exchange several times. Jeremiah asked why and G-d answered him – but with a question of His own. Astounding. I could hear myself in Jeremiah’s words. I could feel his underlying frustration because I’ve felt it a hundred times. Jeremiah defends his righteousness then questions G-d – more specifically, Jeremiah questions G-d’s motives.
That’s what struck me today. When I ask “why” of G-d, I’m questioning His motives and making a judgement of sorts. A “why” question comes when we want to know someone’s intent, motivation, and meaning behind an action. By asking “why” we want to learn something more about a situation and eliminate confusion. We’re seeking to understand and even make sense of preconceived thoughts and ideas. And, when we ask “why”, we expect an answer.
G-d’s answer – rather His question – to Jeremiah is telling: if this simple thing bothers you, how will you handle the bigger things ahead of you? Or, as one author puts it; “If you complain about the simple things God has already asked you to do, then you lack the spiritual strength to do what he wants you to do next.” (Ryken).
In other words, it’s for your good and your benefit. He is using the things I don’t understand – including adversity, pain, and doubt – to stretch and strengthen my spiritual muscles and stamina so I can carry what He has for me in the next season. Instead of focusing on “why” someone has something I do not, I should focus on His goodness, His holiness, and His righteousness alone.
G-d’s response brings Proverbs 24:10 to mind: “If you faint in the day of adversity, Your strength is small.” I don’t want small strength. I want big spiritual muscles, and the only way to grow and develop them is to follow His path and His plan for me. More of Him, less of me. Always.
Father – thank You for Your Word and how You speak to me day after day. Help me to lay down my why and just say yes. Your ways are higher and better and I choose to trust you. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: Jeremiah 10-13
August 10, 2022