“But I’ve discovered that entering the “what-ifs” room gives a person nowhere to stand. . . . What-ifs only intensify grief and invite blame-shifting.”- Wayne Stiles
“When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.”- 2 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)
In Chapter 8 (“A Long Resolution”) of Waiting on God, Dr. Wayne Stiles compares what-if thinking to searching for a flicker of light in a yawning black cavern. As a result, at times we cope with our disappointments by masking the pain. In addition, we conduct a search for someone or something to make us happy.
The only hope for dealing with our disappointments and “what-ifs” comes from God. Amazingly, the Lord helps us see those disappointments as part of His plan. Dr. Stiles succinctly summarizes:
“God reveals what he wants us to know, what we need to know, and what we can apply- but not all at once.”
However, we obstruct this revelation when we compare our circumstances with other people’s lives. Their lives seem better by comparison, as Wayne accurately describes:
“Even their struggles seem better. We stew over someone else’s abilities, salaries, or bodies. We feel rejected when they get affirmed in front of us. When we compare ourselves with others, our knee-jerk reaction is envy, discouragement, depression- or worse- pride.”
Consequently, Jesus’ words to Peter (John 21:22) serve as a helpful reminder when we attempt to make such comparisons: “What is that to you? You follow me!”
Following Jesus keeps us from taking a detour and entering the “what-ifs” room.
Today’s question: What Bible verses have blocked your entry into the “what-ifs” room? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “A spiritual vacuum in our hearts”
