It Happened…Now what?

I’m here reading a commentary on the Book of Galatians. Not to get into every detail of what the author is saying, but this particular section mentions “fairness”. The concept of God’s choices and decisions being “fair” or “unfair”. They are neither. They are, in essence, His choices and not for us to deem “fair” or “unfair”

As I was mulling over this point, this concept, I thought of events in my own life. Was it “fair” my biological father was an alcoholic who did some awful things in his life? Was it “fair” that I was sexually abused by different people at different ages?

The truth that came to me if that fairness didn’t and doesn’t matter. It happened so Now what? Do I wallow my life away in pity or anger? Do I grow from it and share to help others? Do I get angry at God for allowing it or Do I hold fast to Him knowing He was there then to see me through and is here now to guide my life forward?

As with most things in this life on earth, fairness doesn’t matter. Yes this will upset many readers who think of the injustices of this world. Injustice is a whole other issue. I am more speaking of the times, more personal to someone, where “fairness” comes into question. The parable of the Prodigal son is an example (Luke 15:11-32 NIV)

What is striking me this morning is not fair versus unfair or even just vs unjust. The thing that is striking me is the “what now?” It happened, what now? I was abused….what now? My biological father was not so awesome…what now?

Instead of dwelling on the event, let us look to our response. I certainly do not intend to belittle any tragic life events for anyone. This is more meant as an encouragement to consider your response. It happened…now what?

How can God be glorified? How can this be used to help someone else? What can I learn and how can I grow?

I could spend the rest of my life debating the “fairness” of events in my life. I could dwell in a place of anger and frustration for outcomes not being the way I think they should have occurred. Yet, where does that get me? Where would it get you? Miserable? Consumed? Nullifying pain with things of this world (drugs, alcohol, sex, etc)?

My choice has been and always will be “It happened…Now what?” It is the response, the “now what”, that changes everything. Now I trust in the Lord who provides. The Lord who restores and redeems. The Lord who “would part a sea so I wouldn’t drown” (Jireh-Elevation Worship)

In all this early morning rambling, if it can leave you with any encouragement I pray it would be to let go of the things that hold you back. The things that may dwell in your heart as being “unfair”. Fair versus unfair will only leave you trapped in a cycle of hurt. Cast these things out and give them to Jesus for His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30).