The Because Principle *

In my Bible translation (NAS), the word “because” appears nearly 1,600 times. It’s a multi-functional word that serves two major issues. First, it answers one of the most frequently asked questions in all the world: Why? Secondly, and just as often, it is used to shift blame for or excuse  bad behavior: “Because Bob…”

Remember when you were young, your parents would often answer your ‘why’ with something like, “because I said so”? It didn’t answer your question, but it saved them from trying to explain their reasoning, which may have been above your comprehension at the time. As you got older, hopefully, the answers contained more of their thinking.

Admittedly, I haven’t looked up

all occurrences of the word, but I did come across an interesting cousin. I’ve mentioned this couplet before but it fits this narrative: if—then. Many times, these words are assumed. For example, in Psalm 81:11-14, both examples are present.

Verse 11 starts, “But My people did not listen…” Then verse 12, “So I gave them over…” Verse 11 could have started, “Because My people did not listen…” Verse 12 could have read, “then I gave them over…” These two verses are the if-then results of Israel not listening to God’s warning in v. 8-10 and reiterated in v.13-14, “Oh that [If] my people would listen to Me…[then] I would quickly subdue their enemies…”

So why is this important?

As children of God, we are to live with purpose, consciously aware of our charge in 1 Cor. 10:31, “Whether then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This is not a suggestion; it’s a command we need to obey. As sinful humans, our pride reacts poorly to the words ‘whatever’ and ‘all’. Our first thought may be “Why must I do this?” Because obedience begets blessings. Disobedience begets judgment, e.g. “One who is generous will be blessed, because he gives some of his food to the poor.” (Prov. 22:9)

Here are a couple of “why” answers.

Why do we love? “We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

Why should I trust Him with my concerns/cares? “Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you.” 1 Pet. 5:7

Why is God’s wrath aimed at me? “For it is because of these things that the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience.” Col. 3:6 (These things are: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed which amounts to idolatry. v.5)

In all my Bible reading over the years,

I’ve never found God not to have purpose in all He says and does. Nothing capricious or without meaning and direction. But often in my prayer time I find myself wondering why. Why does God not answer my prayers according to my timeframe, according to my perception of justice? I try not to be so bold as to question Him because I know His way is best. But I need to work on my patience and trust Him to know and do what’s best for me and brings most glory to Him.

So when we struggle with asking God why, I suggest this as a reminder that God is still in control…of everything, including timing, results, and purpose. Trusting that God always has purpose eliminates the frustration if He were to answer, “Because I said so.”

If you’d like to know the God of purpose, the God who loves you infinitely, click here Steps To Salvation.

*Hat tip to Pastor Doug Olsen