The Wrong Question | Tuesday
Devotional
When suffering enters our lives, our first instinct is often to ask “Why me?” or “Why would God allow this?” We position ourselves as judges in a courtroom we didn’t build, demanding verdicts from the very God who created us. But what if we’re asking the wrong question entirely?
Jesus encountered this same mindset when people brought Him news of tragic deaths, expecting Him to explain why these particular individuals suffered. Instead of providing the explanation they sought, Jesus redirected their focus entirely. He challenged them to consider not why others suffer, but why any of us receive mercy at all.
The truth is, we all deserve judgment for our rebellion against God. Every breath we take, every moment of joy we experience, every blessing we receive is pure grace. When we shift from demanding explanations to marveling at God’s mercy, our entire perspective changes.
Rather than asking “God, why is there suffering?” the better question becomes “God, why would you ever extend mercy to someone like me?” This shift moves us from a position of entitlement to one of gratitude, from demanding answers to trusting God’s character.
Today, consider how this change in perspective might transform your response to difficult circumstances.
Bible Verse
‘Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem?’ – Luke 13:4
Reflection Question
How might your current struggles look different if you approached them with gratitude for God’s mercy rather than demands for explanations?
Quote
The question is not God, why is there suffering? The right question for us to ask is, God, why would you ever extend mercy?
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for demanding answers when I should be amazed by Your mercy. Help me trust Your goodness even when I don’t understand Your ways.