Understanding and Faith

   It seems we are never happy until we understand.  Regardless of what we are dealing with we feel we need to understand all there is to know about it.  In some cases this simply isn’t possible.  We can never fully understand what the doctor or the auto mechanic or many other professionals know and understand.  To try to do so is an exercise in frustration.

   We sometimes apply this same desire to our faith.  We want to understand why God does what He does.  We feel we should know why He loves us.  We are blessed by God, but we can’t grasp why He blesses us.  We feel a need to understand.  Maybe in the next life we will better understand the mind of God but it’s certainly not possible in this one.

   It all comes down to faith.  Martin Luther King, Jr. defined faith in this way, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”  In his letter to the Hebrews, Saint Paul wrote, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Heb 11: 1).

   We can never fully understand God, His love for us, or His plan for us.  But we can, by faith, accept and believe in all things of God.  Not because we understand but because we trust in the One who is trustworthy in all things.

   So don’t waste time stressing over things that can’t be understood.  Rather, accept God’s word and have faith in Him.  Know that He loves you; be thankful that He forgives you and welcomes you into His family.  Accept His love and live in the faith of God.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4: 7)