Silent Before God

The LORD said to Job,

“Do you still want to argue with the Almighty?

You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?”

Then Job replied to the LORD,

“I am nothing—how could I ever find the answers?

I will cover my mouth with my hand.

I have said too much already.

I have nothing more to say.”

Job 40:1-5

Job lost everything: his children, his possessions, his health, and the loyalty of his wife. He was left with friends who tried to explain it all by accusing him of doing wrong. Job and his friends tried to understand all that transpired, but in the end, they overlooked God’s infinite wisdom and absolute sovereignty. The Almighty doesn’t answer to anyone. His knowledge and power far surpass our own. We may never completely understand his ways. But God has revealed more than enough of his loving character so that we can fully trust him.

It’s okay to ask God your difficult questions. But be careful not to use those questions as an excuse to accuse God or abandon him. Remind yourself that God is righteous, that his ways and thoughts are far above your own. Then sit in humble silence before the Almighty.

• Righteous God, I don’t understand, but I quietly trust that you have the answers . . .