But why?

If you have a preschooler in the house, you probably hear this question A LOT. And frankly, it's a good one, as they are learning how the world works (of course that doesn't mean that I don't get annoyed after hearing it for the 257th time each day!)

But for some reason, yesterday I was thinking about how I question *my* Heavenly Father. How often do I pull on His clothes, whining, "Why? But why?" As children grow, they ask this question less frequently. Am I growing, or are my prayers still filled with this whiny question?

But back to why we ask that infamous question - we want to understand. Again, not really a bad thing in and of itself. But there are things that in my human-ness I will never comprehend.

As I was driving home from church yesterday, I had the Newsboys' Adoration album playing, and "Lord (I Don't Know)" came on. I was singing along, but then the chorus stopped me cold.

Lord, I don't know where all this is going
Or how it all works out
Lead me to peace that is past understanding
A peace beyond all doubt

I grew up in the church, and have sung "I have the peace that passes understanding down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart!" over and over. Philippians is one of my favorite books, so I certainly know the scripture reference. But suddenly I thought of it in a new way - it's not just peace that others can't understand; it's the peace that comes when I stop fighting to understand. When I choose to let go of the "why" question, and just trust that my Lord is in control.

Lord, help me to seek this true peace, and rest in your promise that YOU have it all worked out. I know that you are patient with me and will allow me to question, and I thank you for not providing answers, for allowing me to grow and trust in you.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7