Why do we do what we do? Why do we like what we like? Why do we fear some things and are bold as lions in others? There’s a reason. We’re all wired for certain activities, we have certain giftings and the desire to do certain things. That’s what sets us apart as people. But, there are certain things that we’re all specifically hardwired for. God put those unfilled containers in our hearts to only be filled by Him. When something is empty, we replace it. If there’s no milk in the refrigerator, we instinctively know to go to the store to replenish it. It’s the same way with God. There’s voids in our lives that push us towards Him. There’s situations in life that cannot be solved at street level. We have to look up and submit to The One that is higher than us. 

When life seems to be smooth sailing, it’s easy to forget your need for what God offers. We often get distracted by goodness. However, when life starts falling apart and we cry out “why?”, who are we actually crying out to? People, afflicted with humanity just like us, do not have the answers. There’s a reason God will allow hardships into our lives. He knows that it will ultimately push us into the arms of The One who does have the answers. “I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself. In him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

This Is the reason we go through everything we go through. God wants us encouraged in Him, living in strong ties of love with one another and to know Christ who has all wisdom and knowledge. If we study the life of Jesus, we can certainly see that life was not exactly comfortable and easy. But He stayed on the straight and narrow plan The Father had for Him. “Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬) We all have a plan laid out for us by The Father. It’s not always easy, but the prize is worth it. 

When you’re lifting weights in the gym, it hurts. It takes every ounce of energy you have. You’re basically tearing down muscle tissue to build it up stronger. You’re tired and worn out from the physical battle, but you become much physically stronger and able to withstand the next session. God works in the same way with us in the spiritual. He allows the tough times in life to tear down, if you will, our ideas that everything should always be comfortable. He builds us up during the hardships we face so that we’re ready to lend a helping hand to someone going through tough times in the future. Also, we become stronger ourselves when the next storm of life hits. “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.” (‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬) Jesus never mentions that hard times won’t come. In fact, exactly the opposite. He’s not talking about a nice spring shower here. He’s talking about hurricane force winds and torrential downpours. 

The Lord knows the plans He has for you. They’re good plans. But we have a real enemy out there. The devil, himself, also has plans for us. What kind of parent would The Lord be if He didn’t prepare us for the tough times? He loves us enough to let us experience life in its raw state because He knows it’s for our good. Don’t resent the tough things in life. It builds character and integrity. The Lord wants us to show the world a different way to deal with life. “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” (‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬) Don’t resist it. God holds His children in The Palm of His Hand. Ask Him what to do and what you need to learn from the situation. He will show you. Communication with Him grows your trust and brings stability. This is the reason.

Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.