The Why Is More Important Than The How

Victor Frankl, a famous author who survived the German Holocaust of WWII, once wrote, “He who has a ‘why’ to live can bear with almost any ‘how’.”  (Man’s Search for Meaning)  He also referenced in his book Nietzsche’s famous statement, “That which does not kill me, makes me stronger.”  Both men make a very good point on the meaning of suffering and how to survive it.  

In our present context of the Pandemic, the ‘why do we live’ question is a very important one to answer.  For example, if I live to bring glory to God and His son Jesus Christ, how that happens (and the nature of my present circumstances) is not as important as the fact that it does.  If I believe that God loves me and uses all circumstances for my good and His glory, being forced to live differently in terms of work and social distancing should have little impact on my faith and desire to serve God.  Even though Nietzsche didn’t believe in Jesus as we do, his point of suffering for the sake of growing spiritually, becoming a better parent, husband, grandfather, and employee is a good one.

So how do we concentrate on the why of or existence, rather than the how or the quality of life issues?  I constantly pray and ask the Holy Spirit to fill and empower me to love God and others more than I love myself.  I read scriptures that encourage me to endure and keep going like James 1:2-5, 2 Timothy 3:14-17, and Ephesians 2:1-10.  I spend time with people on the phone and with zoom to pray and ask for encouragement.  I read good books like Born Again and The Hiding Place to learn and be inspired by the courage of others.  And lastly, I try to walk at least 30 minutes a day to clear my head and talk with God about how things are going.

Do you understand that the ‘why’ of living your life is more important than your job, retirement account, being stuck at home, and suddenly being tasked with homeschooling your kids?  I am not saying that all of this is easy, but God is in control and is always present to help us.  Remember that circumstances and feelings are a very poor indicator of how much God loves you and how proud He is for you just being faithful during this time.  So what do you do to fix your focus on the why and not the how?  What is He teaching you about Himself, and do you sense that He is making you stronger to serve Him more faithfully?

Please know that I am praying and never forget the depth of God’s love for you.

Pastor Derek

Watch the video devotional "The Why Is More Important Than The How" below or browse previous video devotionals from Pastor Derek.