The WH- Questions

 As an educator, we discuss teaching students to answer the wh- questions: who, what, where, when, why (we throw in how also even though it isn't a wh- word). To get my ELA students to write more in depth paragraphs, I would constantly ask why when they wrote the barest of details. As a child, I've always wanted to know the how and why of things. I took my grandfather's old watch apart because I wanted to know how it worked. As an adult, I want to know why or how some towns got their names. (Be honest, you do, too.)

Adulthood has not stopped my questions, but I'm learning I may not get any answers.

Even when we know God is in control, and we place our total faith in Him, we still ask the wh- questions. How soon will I get the results from the doctor? How am I going to keep my career going if I can no longer see the computer or drive? When will the prayers be answered? What if the prayers aren't answered?  

Have you experienced this dilemma or struggle?

God doesn't mind the questions, but we have to understand that we might not get the answers immediately or at all. There are lessons in our situations. Lesson 1: Patience....God can't give us patience, but He will put us in situations to practice patience. Lesson 2: Faith...God can't give us a strong faith, but He will put us in situations to increase our faith in Him. 

How would we respond if God gave us an exact timeline of events in our lives? If we are realistic and truthful with ourselves, the answers aren't pretty. 

Psalms 27:14 "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

James 1:3-4 "...because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Patience and faith are only part of the equation. Joyfulness is needed, as well. Lesson 3: Joyfulness

Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

There is a great difference between joyfulness and happiness. Happiness is circumstantial. Eating your favorite ice cream can make you happy. Your favorite football team winning can make you happy. Coffee makes me happy. Yet, none of those can bring us joy. 

Joy is a feeling that in spite of a horrendous circumstance, we may find ourselves whistling a tune or singing along with the radio. FYI: Joy is mentioned over 400 times in the Bible, so it must be important. Happiness is only mentioned around 10 times.

So...here are some answers to my questions. They may be answers to yours, too.

When? in God's time. 

Why? to increase my faith and show His grace, mercy, and power. 

How do I cope? pray and praise.

I wish you a joyful and blessed day.

PB

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