It's a common Christian phrase to say, "Everything happens for a reason."

I have a hard time believing that.

I was talking to a patient of mine who was telling me about the loss of their unborn child, a loss so great it led to the downfall of their marriage. He said, "Everything happens for a reason." Maybe, sometimes it does. Maybe, you didn't get that job because God has something better for you. Maybe, God pulled you away from that boyfriend or girlfriend because you deserve more. In our eyes we see pain, but in His eyes, He sees a better future than you could ever imagine. The distinction of protection from pain or a worse life than the Lord planned, from causing blatant suffering is crucial. Do I believe God will lead us into something greater while it may cause temporary pain? Yes. Do I believe God causes us wickedness, pain, and loss? Absolutely not.

Job, a faithful follower of the Lord, is definitely someone who went through quite a few struggles. As recorded in Job chapters one through three, he lost his family, his health, and his will to live. Still, he says, "For certainty, God does not act wickedly" (Job 34:12). The Lord is not wicked for allowing bad things to happen. Wickedness would be the causation of evil, which God does not partake in. We can't have freedom without the product of consequence.

I can't help but disagree with that man that God took away his child in an act of a grand master plan. I do believe, however, that God can take our losses and turn them into glory. God does not cause these unspeakable things to occur, but He can bring beauty from the brokenness, diamonds from the ashes. God has sovereignty over our lives, but He should not be mistaken as a puppet master.

Two years ago, my brother became a father at the mere age of eighteen years old...with his ex-girlfriend. I do not believe it was God's plan for my brother's ex to become pregnant. However, this "mishap" led to the reconstruction of his life. He cleaned up his act, enrolled in college, and began taking better care of himself for the sake of his baby girl. She is the light of his world and certainly brings immense joy to our whole family.

Some things simply happen. Some from sin, some from natural disaster, some from the immortality of human beings. Some things, such as life and death, and whatever else occurs in the in-between, are just a product of this broken world. I can't explain every tragedy that happens in this life and I think anyone who searches for that meaning will drive themselves crazy. Some things just are. Thank God for allowing you to endure trials, don't blame him. Find solace in the fact that he cares about you and everything you endure.

James 5:11: "As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy."