When
tragedy strikes, questions follow. Our loss of a loved one may lead us to ask
God any number of pointed questions: “Why did You let this happen?” “Whose
fault was this?” “Don’t You care about my pain?”
The book
of Job records the questions Job asks as he sits down with friends to lament
his suffering. He had lost his family as well as his health and possessions. At
one point, he asks, “Why is light given to him who is in misery, and life to
the bitter of soul?” (3:20). Later, he asks, “What strength do I have, that I
should hope?” (6:11). And, “Does it seem good to You that You should oppress?”
(10:3). Many have stood near a headstone placed too early and asked similar
questions.
But when you read all the way to the end of the book, you get a surprise. When God responds to Job (chs. 38–41), He does it in an unexpected way. He turns the tables and asks Job questions—different questions that show His wisdom and sovereignty. Questions about His magnificent creation—the earth, stars, and sea. And the questions all point to this: God is sovereign. God is all-powerful. God is love. And God knows what He is doing.
Our greatest comfort in sorrow is to know that God is in control. (RBC)
