Mysterious ways

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.                                          — Isaiah 55:9

When my son began attending Chinese language classes, I marveled at the papers he brought home after his first session. As a native English speaker, it was difficult for me to understand how the written characters related to the spoken words. The language seemed incredibly complex to me — almost incomprehensible.

Sometimes I feel the same sense of bewilderment when I consider the way God operates. I know He has said, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” (Isa. 55:8). Still, there’s a part of me that feels like I should be able to understand why God allows certain things to happen. After all, I read His Word regularly and His Holy Spirit lives inside of me.

When I feel entitled to understand God’s ways, I try to recommit myself to humility. I remember that Job did not get an explanation for all his heartache (Job 1:5,8). He struggled to understand, but God asked him: “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him?” (40:2). Job contritely responded, “How can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth” (v.4). Job was speechless before God’s greatness.

Although God’s ways may seem to be mysterious and unfathomable at times, we can rest confidently that they are higher than our ways. — Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Father, please help me to trust You even when I don’t understand why things happen as they do. Comfort my heart and remind me of Your goodness and love.

READ: Job 40:1-14

Since God’s hand is in everything, you can leave everything in God’s hand.

Bible in a Year: 2 Chronicles 7-9 and John 11:1-29