Several years ago I noticed a tendency among many in the church to mix elements of American idealism, home-spun wisdom and biblical phrases in a concoction I called “folk religion.” Years later, I ran across a book by Dr. Roger Olson entitled Questions for all Your Answers, in which identified a similar tendency.
One of the hallmarks of this folk religion is the old cliche, “Everything happen for a reason,” or God has a plan for everyone’s life.” Recently Dr. Olson took this adage to task as he address a group of young people. Follow the link below to read his address and insights.
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/rogereolson/2013/04/what-is-gods-will-and-how-can-one-find-it/