For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
For 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 KJV)
Have you ever had any questions that didn’t seem to have easy answers?
Why did he …. ?
How did she ….?
When did they ….?
Why did that event ….. ?
In this life, there can be lots of struggles or questions that don’t seem to have simple answers.
We probably each have examples of things we don’t understand. An untimely death. A once-healthy marriage that is destroyed. A child’s severe illness. For as much as the Bible tells us about God, it still leaves a great deal of space for the mystery of God.
Perhaps this 200 year old hymn will help us find some resolution:
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.
His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter,
And He will make it plain. (William Cowper)
God of Beauty, Perfection, and Mystery,
Thank you for being our rock, our shelter, our fortress, and our strong deliverer, especially when our lives are left with mysteries and unanswered questions. We pray that we would seek your face when we are trapped in mysterious places. When we are seemingly lost, please reveal yourself to us. When we are struggling with what seems like a breaking down of sacred or secure things, help us trust you in that process. When we are discouraged or despairing, help us to look to you for our help – that you would be our shield, watching over us and protecting us. When we are tasting something bitter, help us to look to you for the sweet flower. God, continue to reassure us of our security in you, even as we watch you move in mysterious ways. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
You are the GOD who does wonders; You have made known Your strength among the peoples. (Ps. 77:14)
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” (John 13:7 NIV)