When God doesn’t act as we expect it can shake us and leave us questioning him. In Job’s case, the Lord’s long awaited answer was-
“Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. [Job 38:2-3]
Instead of clarifying Job’s theology, the Lord asks questions. Questions that waited till Job and his friends had exhausted their own explanations.
When God isn’t doing what we expect, are we willing to wait quietly for his questions?
“Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much. [Job 38:4]
The Bible’s rich insights about life enable us to live well. However, much is shrouded in a mystery that challenges our propensity to make pronouncements.
Am I willing to walk humbly with God into the good works he has prepared for me to do with the limited understanding I have?
Have you made daylight spread … to bring an end to the night’s wickedness? … The light disturbs the wicked and stops the arm that is raised in violence. [Job 38:13-15]
In our humanity we want to overcome the darkness through methods of ministry, whether through prayer or action. If then the Lord acts dramatically, it will be claimed as the work of our ministry. If he fails to act there is frustration.
Such reactions expose the superficiality of my knowledge of God. Can I learn more of who he is from his surprises?