Jesus offers a parable in Matthew 20:1-16 that could be titled "Life Isn't Fair, but the Master Is!" It's a parable for those who tend to keep a scorecard on life, for those tempted to envy others. I have found at least three principles here to help us face situations that seem unfair:
First, remember what you really deserve. The men hired first expected a bonus (see v. 10). They thought the landowner owed them a "little extra" even though he had promised them no such thing. We also think we deserve more than we actually do.
I have to admit this is occasionally a struggle for me. I look at what I've done for my Master (God), and believe that I deserve more. That's a dangerously wrong evaluation of worth. After all, He gave me everything I have. Plus, Scripture reminds us we ultimately deserve hell, not heaven.
Second, envy begins when we compare ourselves with others. The laborers' problem was they saw too much! Their eyes betrayed them.
How's your vision? Can you look clearly at what others have and be glad they have it? Or does the green film of envy blur your vision?
Finally, we must ultimately trust the Master, who owns everything, and be convinced He knows what He is doing. God is the Sovereign Ruler of the universe. He alone controls and rules over all. Not only does He know what He is doing, but He also loves us.
Barbara and I want our children to grow up realizing God won't give each of them the same share of earthly benefits. But we want them to know He will always deal with them in perfect judgment and according to His righteous character.
Everything that occurs in their lives will either come directly from God's hands or be gently sifted through His fingers. Circumstances, events and problems may not always appear to be fair, but they have permission to occur from our loving Father.
Life isn't fair. But I know One who is fair. And He can be trusted. Will you trust Him?
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