Trusting God When Life Doesn't Make Sense

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you couldn't make heads or tails of what was happening? A time when you looked up to the heavens and thought, "God, I don't know what's going on here"? If so, you're not alone. Even the most devout believers sometimes struggle to understand God's plan, especially when life takes unexpected turns.

There's a powerful song that captures this sentiment perfectly:

"I'm fighting a battle that you've already won.

No matter what comes my way, I will overcome.

I don't know what you're doing, but I know what you've done.

I'm fighting a battle you've already won."

These lyrics encapsulate a profound truth: even when we can't comprehend God's current actions, we can hold fast to what He has already accomplished. This perspective shift can be transformative in our faith journey.

As Christians, we often proclaim that God is in control of everything. This means there's nothing outside His purview or authority. However, this belief doesn't negate the struggles and misunderstandings we face. Just as a loving marriage can have moments of disagreement without diminishing the overall love, our relationship with God can withstand periods of confusion or frustration.

The key is to stay in love with God, even when His actions don't align with our expectations. Remember, our love for Him should be stronger than our misunderstandings.

Consider the story of Abraham in Genesis 22. God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his son, Isaac - the very son God had promised would be the foundation of Abraham's numerous descendants. Can you imagine the internal turmoil Abraham must have experienced? This command seemed to contradict everything God had previously promised.

Yet, Abraham's response is remarkable. He rose early the next morning, gathered the necessary items, and set out with Isaac for the place God had specified. His obedience in the face of incomprehensible instructions is a testament to his deep trust in God.

As they journeyed, Isaac innocently asked, "Father, the fire and wood are here, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?" Abraham's response reveals his unwavering faith: "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son."

This exchange is heart-wrenching. Abraham, fully intending to follow through with God's command, still held onto hope that God would intervene. And indeed, at the last moment, God did provide a ram caught in a thicket, sparing Isaac's life.

This story teaches us several crucial lessons about trusting God when life doesn't make sense:

1. God's tests often challenge our deepest convictions.

2. Obedience in the face of confusion can lead to profound blessings.

3. Even when we don't understand God's methods, we can trust His character.

4. Sometimes, God's provision comes at the last possible moment.

Abraham's experience reminds us that it's easier to obey God when we understand His plan. When everything aligns and makes sense, following His lead feels natural. But what about when life throws curveballs? When we face setback after setback? When we struggle with our children, finances, relationships, or careers?

In these moments, we often try to figure things out on our own. We analyze, strategize, and attempt to make sense of our circumstances. But inevitably, we come to the realization that some things in life simply don't compute. They don't add up to our understanding of fairness or justice.

It's in these moments that our faith is truly tested. Do we continue to trust in a God whose actions we can't comprehend? Do we hold fast to His promises even when our current reality seems to contradict them?

The challenge is to remember what God has already done, even when we can't understand what He's currently doing. We know that Jesus has purchased our salvation. He went to the cross, paid for our sins, rose from the dead, and ascended to the Father. He's at the right hand of the Father right now, making intercession for us according to God's perfect will.

These truths don't change, regardless of our current circumstances. They provide an anchor for our faith when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us.

Moreover, we must remember that everything that happens to believers is filtered through God's grace. The enemy can't simply run roughshod over our lives; he must ask permission from our sovereign God. This doesn't mean we won't face trials - the Bible assures us that many are the afflictions of the righteous. But it does mean that God is always in control, even when we can't see or understand His plan.

So, what do we do when life doesn't make sense? How do we respond when God's actions seem inconsistent with His promises?

1. Hold fast to what you know about God's character and past faithfulness.

2. Continue in obedience, even when you don't understand the reasons behind God's commands.

3. Trust that God's grace is sufficient, even in the midst of trials.

4. Remember that your current confusion doesn't negate God's love for you.

5. Look for God's provision, which often comes in unexpected ways.

Life won't always make sense. There will be times when God's actions confuse or even frustrate us. But in these moments, we're called to a deeper level of faith - one that trusts not in our understanding, but in God's unchanging nature and unfailing love.

As you navigate your own seasons of confusion or trial, hold onto this truth: You may not know what God is doing, but you know what He's done. You're fighting a battle He's already won. And no matter what comes your way, with His strength, you will overcome.