No Rhyme or Reason
Do you have trouble understanding our world today? Much that we see and hear has no rhyme or reason.
No rhyme or reason means decisions or actions make no sense.
We find no logical explanation for:
- Documents filled with nothing but red tape
- Decisions that hurt rather than help
- Concern only for self
They puzzle us. Most make us out of sorts.
Similar expressions include:
- Without rhyme or reason
- No rhyme nor reason
- Neither rhyme nor reason
The Free Dictionary says this expression “originated in French about 1475.”
English use began about one hundred years later.
We find no rhyme or reason for certain events beyond our control.
- Unexplained medical problems
- Unexpected severe weather
God can use every circumstance, including those that puzzle us.
We often see that in the Bible. For example, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. Yet God used their evil plans for good.
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20 NIV).
Thanks to Ann Klotz for the suggestion. Image courtesy of Pixabay.
11 thoughts on “No Rhyme or Reason”
Thanks for giving this expression such a beautiful context.
My husband, Joseph, particularly relates to your selected verse.
When there’s “no rhyme or reason”, I also think of Romans 8:28 “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose”.
Thank you for the great suggestion, Ann. I also relate this one to Romans 8:28. It’s such a hopeful verse. God bless you and yours.
Thanks for giving this expression such a beautiful context.
My husband, Joseph, particularly relates to your selected verse.
When there’s “no rhyme or reason”, I also think of Romans 8:28 “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose”.
So many things that happen to us in life don’t seem to make rhyme or reason, but I love how you’ve explained it here, Diana. God works all things for good even when we can’t understand in the moment when life seems to be throwing us a curve ball. Blessings!
Thank you for the encouraging words, Martha. Looking back allows us to see what God has done. Looking forward, we trust God to bring good from whatever comes our way. Blessings.
As the world makes less and less sense, God’s Word anchors us. Great context.
Thank you, Tracy. I’m so grateful we can hold on to God’s truth whatever goes on around us.
Many things around us are befuddling and clear as mud.
I enjoy your Words, Wit, and Wisdom.
Thank you, Beckham. They are befuddling and clear as mud, indeed.
What a great way to look at this saying! Although we may not figure a rhyme or reason for why things are happening, we can rest in the promises of God. We can rest in His peace and comfort. 🙂
What reassurance your last two sentences offer, Melissa. I’m so thankful for God’s promises, peace, and comfort.