Why?

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose.

This is one of my favorite verses. It comes back to me time and time again.

I know there are some that don't like this verse because it can be interpreted in different ways I guess.

But the way I read it is that no matter what happens, good or bad God can and does work it out for good. I don't read here that God causes bad things to happen so that he can do good things. I believe we live in a fallen, sinful world...ugly things happen. And I believe it grieves God when they do, and He then will work things out for good for those who believe in Him.

I am not trying to get into theological debate, although I guess since I am writing this perhaps I am opening myself up for it. ;o)

I guess because this is on my mind so heavily right now...I don't believe God gives children cancer, but I do believe that He changes people's hearts and minds and souls that are effected by that child's cancer. People are strengthened, they are lifted, they are made to see things differently and in a different light. Perhaps they begin to see that He does love, both the child that is hurting as well as the family caring for them. What I see is that God hurts too.

Why does He not heal the child?

I have no clue. I honestly have no clue as to why some people are healed, helped, rescued, or spared and others aren't. Believe me, it will be one of those things I will ask Him about when I get to heaven.

What I do know is that over and over in my life I have had things happen that, when looking back, I can see where God used the situation for my good. Some of the situations were extremely painful, some were ugly, some were my own doing... and God has used them to change me. At the very least I have grown from each one.

Some things have happened and I have yet to see why they happened, or the good that is coming from it. But then again, I am not God (phew!!!) nor do I see all aspects of other's lives.

Some people talk about going back to a certain time and doing life over with what they know now. I wouldn't do that if you paid me!

There are many times that I forget to rely on God. I forget to trust in Him. I forget that He has things in control, and He's not surprised by what is happening. If I would only trust Him, He will work it all out. It may not be the way I want it, or the way I plan it, but it's always good for me.

Who knew that He would lead us to adoption? To adoption from Ethiopia? To adoption from Ethiopia of an HIV+ child? To planning a mission team?

I can't wait to see what else He has planned!!!!

His ways are SO SO much bigger than mine. His thoughts are so much better.