“It is what it is.”

When Things Just Are

Have you ever found yourself saying, 'It is what it is' when faced with something difficult or unchangeable? It's a common phrase, but what does it really mean for us?

This saying can pop up when we feel stuck, when we're facing a situation we can't change. Sometimes it's a way of accepting something tough, like a flat tire or a rainy day. Other times, it might sound a little like giving up, like there's no hope or no way to improve things. From God's point of view, things certainly 'are' a certain way. He is real, His love is real, and the world He made is real. But even when things are difficult, He often wants us to look beyond just 'what is' right in front of us. He doesn't want us to pretend problems don't exist, but He also doesn't want us to stop hoping or trying to make things better when we can. Even when a situation truly cannot be changed, like a past event, God helps us find peace and a path forward, not just a shrug of the shoulders.

What Does God Say?

Romans 8:28

“And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose,”

This verse reminds us that God can work all things together for good for those who love Him. Even when things look bad, He can bring something good out of it.

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Instead of just accepting a tough situation with worry, God tells us to pray about everything. He promises that His peace, which is bigger than we can understand, will guard our hearts and minds.

1 Peter 5:7

“by casting all your cares on him because he cares for you.”

We are encouraged to give all our worries to God because He cares for us. This shows us we don't have to carry burdens alone or just accept them without hope.

So, Is It True?

Partially true

While 'It is what it is' can help us accept things we truly cannot change, it misses the deeper truth that God is always at work. He offers us hope and a way to find peace, even in the hardest situations.

The Takeaway

God cares about 'what is' and offers hope for 'what can be'.

We've heard what people say. But what does God say?