Day 230.
Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?
3 Dress for action like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.
4 “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me, if you have understanding.
5 Who determined its measurements—surely you know!
(Job 38:2-5)
Have you ever questioned God when bad things happen? Maybe you’ve faced the loss of a loved one or job loss or something else that has left you hurting and confused. Why would God let such a thing happen? This is the question debated in the book of Job. Asking “why” is not necessarily a bad thing, though it can be when it is only a veiled accusation. That’s the fine line that we must not cross. God answers Job in direct language that rebuke his (and our) implied accusations that God is not justified in such unfair, unjust tragedy. While God rebukes he also reaffirms Job’s faith in him, and the answer that God gives is better than any explanation as to why. His answer is simple: “I am God and I know what I’m doing.” He has laid the foundations of the earth, created all of the creatures with all of their uniqueness, set the stars in their places, and provides the rain even in the places that elude man’s reach. All wisdom belong to Him. Sometimes the answer to “why” is beyond our comprehension. But that doesn’t mean there is not Godly wisdom behind it. Job’s lesson is to trust God in his wisdom and sovereignty, especially when life and tragedy don’t make sense. Trust that He is working in ways that bring glory to His name and blessing to His beloved, which you are if you trust Him.
