It can sometimes be an interesting exercise to ask the “What if?” questions about stories in the Bible. While this practice is not instructive in itself, it can highlight the choices made by those in Bible stories by considering the implication of the alternative.
The world is a generally unfair place. This has nothing to do with its Creator, but instead is both directly and indirectly the consequence of sin in the world. An important aspect of maturity in life requires not only understanding, but accepting this truth. That “life is unfair” is something many of our mother’s sought to remind us of on a regular basis.
There are many people in the world who believe in the idea of fate. They find comfort in the idea that there is some degree of purpose or meaning for one’s everyday life. Because of such belief in fate or destiny, the realms of modern mysticism such as astrology have a steady following. The irony of such a desire is found in that many of these people who desire for some form of destiny caused by eternal forces will deny the existence of God.
In regard to life there are many platitudes that have become common sayings. For instance: “Life is what you make of it” or “Opportunity is just around the corner.” For the Christian, the choices and opportunities of life have a deeper meaning than of those in the world, with a focus not just on this life but also on the next. Walking in the worthy manner before God and sharing the Gospel of Christ are of the greatest purpose and importance.
A 18th Century political philosopher named Edmund Burke is attributed these words, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” Although the specific quote is disputed by some, it seems in character with the overall attitude of Burke’s writings.