That's the way the cookie crumbles

“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.” Psalm 34:1

That’s the way the cookie crumbles means the outcome to a situation is unavoidable and we have to accept it regardless of how unfair it is. This is believed to have originated from the French saying “C’est la vie” which means such is life.

I have a girlfriend right now who has had to make some really difficult decisions, perhaps choices that will affect the quality of her life. This girl has undergone countless surgeries and now either has to wait to see if another spot occurs or endure radiation; she has chosen the latter. But through it all I have never heard her complain, grumble, or whine. I have only seen God’s grace.

I know trials “test” our faith but when I see someone who already has such a strong faith have to go through a hardship I have to remind myself that none of us are guaranteed freedom from trouble. John 16:33 says, “...in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus gives us a beautiful promise that we have nothing to fear and He will give us peace. This is a peace coming from the power of the Holy Spirit living in us to comfort and guide us through the difficult times in our lives.

Paul was no stranger to turbulent times. His life was littered with encounters of hardships, but he always persevered. Jesus reminded him in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “...My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Scripture says this empowered Paul to become even stronger in his weakness because he knew his strength was coming from the Lord.

So when we have to experience difficult times in our lives, it’s a wonderful time for us to be the constant light in this dark world. I know this is true about my friend who radiates God’s grace and peace and I know she’ll make a difference in the lives of everyone in her path through this journey. Life’s definitely not fair and sometimes that’s just the way the cookie crumbles, but through prayer, the Lord gives us discernment and the confidence in the decisions we have to make.