The Search for Answers

Articles From Our Bulletins

Philip C. Strong
09/24/19 - Bulletin Articles

One of the downsides of the “information age” is that we’ve become somewhat accustomed to or conditioned into thinking that there is an answer to every question, problem, circumstance, or predicament. There isn’t- at least not the kind of answer that we mistakenly assume and desire.

We want an instant-fix prescription, pill, procedure, or even just a diagnosis that explains “my problem” or “problems.” We want answers… and with them, solutions.

Perhaps we all get there sometimes; we may even feel like that’s where we live! Paul got there. This warrior of the Word not only wanted a solution to his “thorn in the flesh,” he earnestly prayed for it three times, 2Corinthians 12:7-8. We know the answer he wanted- “that it might depart from me.” Who wouldn’t feel and desire the same? But instead of getting the answer he wanted, note what he received:

Information regarding the purpose of his affliction, “to keep me from exalting myself,” v.7; and, “power is perfected in weakness,” v.9b;
Assurance that he, with reliance on God, could handle it; “My grace is sufficient,” v.9a;
Support from “the power of Christ, v.9d;

All of which, though not the answer for which he asked, enabled him to not only to understand and cope, but also to rejoice in, his tribulation, v.9c and v.10. Was his situation, and the answer given, is really any different from yours… or mine, cf. James 1:2-12?

I get it. Sometimes we’re like the infant that hurts: we may not know exactly what the problem is, let alone the solution to it, but a parent holding, comforting, and encouraging us helps tremendously. God is that parent, and its not only OK to “cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’” (Romans 8:15), it is entirely the right thing to do! But, we must understand that when we do, we might not get the answer we wanted. We might be told, as was Paul: this is good for you in the long run; with My help, you can handle it; and, not only should I learn to live with it, but I should be happy doing so.

Admittedly, there are some situations, circumstances, and experiences of our earthly sojourn for which there are just no satisfactory answers. “Why?” may not:

Have an answer we could understand even if it was provided; “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts higher than your thoughts,” Isaiah 55:8-9;
Be a question we even have a right to ask; “On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, ‘Why did you make me like this,’ will it? Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use, and another for common use?” Romans 9:20-21.

However, when we find ourselves looking for answers, please understand two absolutely true and essential principles:

More often than not, we need God more than we need answers. In truth, the lack of God in our lives is usually the reason we’re wanting and needing answers! “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you,” Matthew 6:33. And,
Regardless of the situation, circumstance, or predicament for which we desire answers, the solution is always going to be: Simply, do the right thing(s). What others have done or are doing to you, or even what you’ve done or are doing to yourself, start doing what God’s Word says- and do it now! “Becoming sober-minded and stop sinning,” 1Corinthians 15:34; “Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin,” James 4:17.

Finally, remember the admonition of 1Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able; but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.” You don’t have the answers to be able to navigate through life’s maze of questions, but Jesus does- stick close to Him and He’ll guide you home!