Life seem unfair even when I believe in God?

Read Psalms 73:1-17

…the world passes away and the lust thereof; but he that does the will of God lives for ever.  I John 2:17

Life is unfair

Why does life seem unfair? Why is it that those who hate or ignore God seem to prosper?

Society as well as Christians aspires to be like people of the world. They follow the rich and famous watching them on talk shows, reality TV, nightly news and the internet. Water cooler conversations are often heard of how life would be different – “if I had that much money I would not have a problem in the world.” Are would you?

Worldly people are blessed

It is suggested that worldly people have everything – house, car, job, even the perfect family? Admit it, the thought has crossed your mind – “why other people have it better than I do,” re-read Psalms 73:3-5.

Many Christians, just like the writer of this Psalms struggled with prosperity of the wicked. Why do arrogant and violent people boast of their fortunes and good health while believers struggle?

Questioning your faith

This is when Christians begin to question their faith. They feel cheated and even ask why should I try to live right?  These thoughts harden the hearts of most believers. As long as thoughts are measured by earthly standards - health, wealth, and power then life will appear unfair.

Seek God first

It was when the writer had a paradigm shift did change take place. His thoughts became spiritual rather than worldly (v.17).  A Christian and non-Christian’s perspective of life changes when they enter a relationship with God. A believer’s final destiny is far greater than the riches of this earth.

When a person truly encounters God in a personal way a new perspective of life is revealed. By Seek(ing) first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you Matt. 6:33.

Heaven on earth

God is the true source of life and joy. Submit self to God, develop a relationship and study his word, it can bring clarity to life’s issues.  When thoughts shift to seeking God first from earthly possessions he will rightfully bless his children. By delighting yourself in the Lord he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). And once that bond is forged yes heaven can also be found on earth too.

Let us pray:  Dear heavenly Father the wayward behavior of the world has clouded my mind. I question the success and prosperity of the ungodly. Lord, forgive me of my selfish thoughts. Father, help me to learn to put ALL my trust in you and my eyes on you and not the world. Help me develop a relationship with you, keep my thoughts on you and lean not upon my own understanding.  Your word said if I delight myself in you that you will give the desires of my heart. I thank you Lord for your Grace and Mercy. I praise and worship your Holy name! These things I pray in your son Jesus the Christ name. Amen.

Shampoo & Shoe Polish: The Rebirth

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised. Psalms 113:3

For days, all eyes were glued on Reality TV, watching the rescue of 33 miners of Copiapo, Chile who were buried alive in a copper mine. We saw interviews from family members, distant relatives, and friends all hoping for a safe resurrection. Nearer the day of rising came the men asked for special items. The request where typical, tooth paste, brush, and socks however there were two items that caught my attention; shampoo & shoe polish. When asked, these men indicated they wanted to present themselves looking their best to their families. Wow, 69 days buried alive, not knowing if they would ever survive and what was most important to them was their appearance.

I perceived this action as a new beginning, cleansing, purging from a death back to life. Or could it be a sacrificial offering of themselves not only to family but to the state, country, world and most importantly God. Chile is Christian community which takes its religion seriously. So seriously most wore t-shirts inscribed with In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him Psalms 95:4. This miracle made way for two miners to give their life to Christ. "The people say, 'It is a miracle. Thank you, God."

There was a time in our society where people wanted to present themselves to God looking their best. Often a family would own one good church going outfit which was adorned during praise and worship time! No, your outward show is not a prerequisite for a person to experience a revival. What I am saying is we need find our own way to present ourself to God through word action or deed. For example, live by the old saying “Cleanliness is next to Godliness”. Are your actions, words, or deeds, good in God’s eye sight? Are you praising him for the many blessing that are taken for granted? As stated by Rev., Dr. Stafford J. Wicker, “We are all blessed with more than two pair of shoes in our closets, a tooth brush, transportation, and food on our tables. There are people all over the world who would love to take any of our used items and would be happy!”

There is no right or wrong answer just food for thought. One has to believe that 33 men did not take they rescue for granted. They found it imperative to be clean and a blessing from God to be alive. This was the one way they could show their gratitude to God by requesting Shampoo & shoe polish!


Tigner Rand