Forgetting Our Why

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 ESV

“Quit sitting on your blessed assurance!” Rafael Cruz

Hard, sad, lonely, and fearful times snatch our Why from us. We forget why we got married when arguing over finances. We forget why we had children when they became troublesome. We forget we are to serve Him when no one notices and we feel taken for granted. We forget why we’re in counseling when enduring painful memories.

We forget why we became a Christian when tribulation comes. And it always comes. Even the non-Christian will suffer tribulation. Again, “It rains on the evil and the good.” However, the evil don’t have a loving Father who put good works in them. Evil doesn’t have a Counselor who guides them. Evil doesn’t have a future or hope, or a blessed eternity. A beautiful eternity seems far-fetched when struggling.

We forget to be thankful. This one is my “thorn.” I have an abundant life, more than enough. Most days, my life flows with love, family, health, and supportive friends. I was bit by some creature, probably a spider, when I was gardening and the bite went through to my tendons. Pain! Though not a life-threatening event, the swelling, itch, and trying to use one hand made me grumpy. Was I thankful? Most assuredly not. Then I see a veteran who has no hands.

We forget how far the Father has brought us. Even a year ago, I was not the person I am today. There has been progress. There has been a transformation. And I forget to be thankful for this. Was the transformation linear? No. There were false starts and backward steps, but the Father continued His good work. It’s good to reflect on where we’ve been, whether through a journal, a close friend, or notes in our Bible.

We forget Jesus’ counsel to live only this day. Another of my shortcomings is living in the past, projecting the future, and forgetting to live, really live today. That’s a good “why.”

Musings

It’s very easy to forget why we became Christians. Jesus reminds us of this when He spoke about the seed on rocky ground, the weeds that choke out the seedlings, and the birds that ate the seed. For the  Father to complete the good work in us, we must choose our “why” daily.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for the good work you’ve placed in us. As long as we’re here on Earth, we know it’s not complete. Help us to remember our “Why.” When we do, good works are accomplished here and with You.

Amen.