Why is not just a question. Why is a cry of anger, hurt or disbelief. Why didn’t God do something? Why did this happen? Why me? We need reminding that we can be confident that everything works together for good to those who love God. The apostle Paul wrote about this in Romans 8:28 (NKJV to encourage believers who lived in a city ruled by the powerful madman, Nero. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Paul reminds us that we can be sure everything that happens to us will result in good, brokenness leads to blessing, death leads to life and suffering leads to glory. We can be assured to trust God when we don’t understand and nothing makes sense.
One of the most difficult situations I’ve faced was the death of my first husband, Pastor Paul. I was the first one on the scene of the motorcycle accident, helpless and alone, I couldn’t get cell phone service because of the area and had to wait until I could flag down a car to call 911.
Screaming, yelling, crying, praying over Paul’s limp body, I yelled, “God why?”…there was only silence. I screamed louder, “God why did this happen?” I had just taught Jeremiah 29:11,12 (CSB) “For I know the plans I have for you – this is the , Lord’s declaration—“plans for [your] welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” I was overcome by God’s presence. I let God change my angry, “God, why did You let this happen?” to “God, how can I glorify You through my loss?”
Friend, I don’t know what your why is today. But I challenge you to let God change your why to how. He did it for me and I know He will do it for you, too, if you let Him. Let’s pray.
“Heavenly Father, I wonder if You hear my cry and feel my pain. I don’t like Your plans much right now. I choose to submit to Your will, even though my circumstances hurt my heart, I thank You for them. How will I make it? I don’t think it would matter if You answered my question of why – my circumstances would not change. So, God, help me to rely on You to show me how to make it through. Thank You for leading me and guiding me with Your gentle hand and Your strong arms, carry me through. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
The Great Leaders Study Guide Series will take you on a journey to help change your why to how.
Exchanging hurt for hope is Sheryl Giesbrecht’s focus—a message she shares with audiences as a radio and television personality, author and speaker. A dynamic teacher and motivating leader, Giesbrecht has endured many changes and challenges, moving her to a deep faith, trust and dependence on God.
She served as Focus on the Family’s columnist for Pastor’s Wives for four years. Hundreds of her columns, magazine and devotional articles have appeared in Focus on The Family Magazine, Just Between Us, Discipleship Journal, CCM, Walk Thru the Bible’s – InDeed and Tapestry publications.
Giesbrecht’s radio show, “Transformed Through Truth” is nationally and internationally syndicated and heard daily by over 10 million listeners on networks across the United States. The Holy Spirit Broadcasting Network shares the show internationally on seven continents. “Transformed Through Truth” launched as a 30-minute internet television teaching feature in March 2017. To view this amazing teaching time, go to www.HSBN.tv.
Sheryl has a heart for missions and is avid about reaching out to the poor and needy, locally through the Rescue Mission and worldwide through various ministry partners. Giesbrecht is a Lead Like Jesus Facilitator and missionary with Freedom In Christ Ministries (www.FICM.org) and has been personally involved with equipping hundreds and facilitating the training of thousands of leaders internationally. Sheryl’s latest book is entitled It’ll Be Okay: Finding God When Doubt Hides the Truth.
The joys of Giesbrecht’s life are her children and thirteen grandchildren. She is excited about the new beginning she shares with her marriage to Dr. Jim Turner. Sheryl holds a Bachelor of Arts from Biola University, a Master’s in Ministry and a Doctorate of Theology.
Learn more about Sheryl Giesbrecht on her website, www.sherylgt.com. She also invites readers to follow her on Facebook, and on Twitter (@SGiesbrecht).
