The ancient Stoics embraced the mindset of Amor Fati, which means “Love of fate.” The intent was to treat each moment — no matter how difficult — as something to embrace, not avoid.
Marcus Aurelius summed it up by saying that there is no greater harmony than to love only that which was destined. In other words: to choose to love whatever happens.
Destiny and fate are not my favorite words, but there is an idea here that leads, ultimately, to a Biblical worldview.
We don’t believe that life’s events are shaped by a random, impersonal force. No, sometimes it’s quite personal. And intentional. We also know that God is not the one wreaking havoc in our daily lives. It’s our common enemy behind it all.
However, in the midst of the challenges, the obstacles, and the setbacks — even in the midst of continuing chaos — we can learn to love this moment, knowing that God controls the current of the sea we sail.
And, in his perfect time, he controls the outcome, as well.
Amor Fati is not the best way to say it; the goal is not to love fate. The goal is to view all things De Propositi Dei: According to God’s Purpose.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose…(Romans 8:28 NLT)
God didn’t create the crisis, but he’s the one who can redeem it. And he will … De Propositi Dei.
This is why we can embrace life’s events, even the ugly ones, because we trust the God who controls even the most raging current, and who causes all to work together for our good and his glory.
