Ecclesiastes 8:14, "There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth: the righteous who get what the wicked deserve, and the wicked who get what the righteous deserve." James 1: 2-4, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Think

We don't have to look very far to find examples of this reality: Scheming and conniving people often succeed despite living like hell. It's so tempting to ask the question consuming our minds, "Why?" It just doesn't seem fair! Although the Bible doesn't give us a direct answer as to why such things occur, it does broaden our perspective by painting a much larger picture: Don't envy evil! Doing whatever it takes to get ahead is meaningless. When we look at life with a long-term perspective, we see that life on earth is just a brief moment in time. Only God can see the entire picture. Christ-followers won't always gain immediate reward for following Jesus, nor will people receive immediate judgment for walking away from Him. But despite the hardships we may endure, a relationship with Jesus is worth far more than any temporary prosperity. Why? Because we can look forward to a God-filled, God-secured eternity in heaven that will far outweigh any temporary suffering on earth. James 1:2 says, "consider it pure joy" when we face trials because with every trial we build perseverance. So, despite injustice or difficulty, we choose to celebrate the joy we've found in Christ. We know that this current season will strengthen us - and it won't last forever. The best is yet to come.

Act

Today, choose joy. Write on a sticky note "I Choose Joy" and post it where you will see it multiple times today. It could be in your car, on your computer at work, or maybe your phone case. You may not feel it at the moment, but it will begin to remind you of the joy that is to come. And, if it would help to have a soundtrack for this activity, listen to the song "Joy" by For King & Country.

Pray

God, I realize that trying to make sense of what I don't understand is a waste of time. Instead of getting wrapped up in the "fairness" of everything, I will keep my eyes fixed on You. You see all, You know all, and You are always good and fair. In Jesus' name, Amen.