I’m reading Six Prayers God Always Answers by Mark Herringshaw and Jennifer Schuchmann. One of the chapters is about our questions of ‘Why God?’
I’ve asked that question so many times in my life. Why did all three of my brothers have to die? Why did my dad leave us? Why did my husband die? Why did it have to be so hot today? Why aren’t more of my books being bought? Why? Why? Why?
Herringshaw and Schuchmann brought it to my attention that God won’t answer those whys because there isn’t enough time. Or rather, as they put it think of a two year old and all they why’s they ask. As a parent you know each why leads to another why. Even Job asked why and God said (my words here)…not enough time and your attention is way to short to follow the reasons. Instead of asking why Herringshaw and Schucmann suggest we ask what now, God? How do I proceed?
I like that. It’s a simple thought. Even if I could understand the why of all my questions I can’t change any of those things. Maybe I wouldn’t even want to. For instance would it have been in my families best interest if Danny and David were still alive but not well? No, and it wouldn’t have been good for them either. In that case the what now becomes should my children undergo genetic testing before having children? That’s up to them. I took a chance and had all boys, the odds are good I haven’t passed on the genetic problems of my family.
I know this is a bit of a ramble. This week is the one year mark of my mother-in-law and father-in-laws passing and I found myself asking why again.
Since I can’t change the past I’ve decided it’s best for me to trust that God really does know what He’s doing and in the end I will understand the why when I get to heaven.
Interested in learning more about this book? It’s available at amazon.com


Ah, one of the benifits of being the best daughter-in-law ever is being able to borrow books. 🙂
Of course you may borrow it. 🙂
Can I borrow that book? I think I need to read that chapter!
Casey,
Ah you are my favorite heathen! 🙂 I wish I could control the future but alas, only the choices I make will determine my path.
Jen, you are a shining example of following God! I’ve been watching your journey and you’re an inspiration.
Well, Diana, taken from a heathen’s perspective you are absolutely correct focusing on the future. You’ve had some terrible losses, and that pain makes up much of what you are. But the ONLY thing you can control is your future behavior. You’re a beautiful person and I’m glad to know you.
That sounds like a great book, because don’t we all ask why? I know I do. And God has told me the same thing: the why doesn’t matter. The ‘what now?’ does.