What to Do When It Makes No Sense

Instead of always asking God “why” when you don’t understand, start trusting him.

For 37 chapters in his book, Job asks: “Why is this happening to me? Why are you allowing this? Why so much pain? Why so much discomfort? Why haven’t you answered my prayers?”

But in chapter 38, Job stops asking “why.” And God says, “Now I’d like to ask you a few questions.”

For the next two chapters, God bombards Job with questions that only God could answer. He asks things like, “Where were you when I made the universe? Can you explain the law of gravity?”

After two chapters, Job realizes that he is just a man and his knowledge is limited. Who is he to question God?

Job stops questioning—and starts trusting. He replies to the Lord, “I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?’ It is I—and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me . . . I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance” (Job 42:2-3, 6 NLT).

What do you do in a situation where you can’t see the whole picture, things aren’t clear, and life doesn’t make sense?

Remind yourself of the things you know about God. Even while doubting, Job affirmed what he knew to be true about God: God is loving (Job 10:12), God is all powerful (Job 36:22), God is in control (Job 34:13), God had a plan for his life (Job 23:14), God would protect him (Job 5:11).

I don’t know what you’re going through right now, but I will tell you this: God is passionately and intimately aware of every detail. He’s paying attention to your every breath. Nothing misses God’s attention.

You may not understand what you’re going through, but you can still say this to God: “I know you’re good. I know you’re loving. I know you’re powerful. I know you notice the details of my life. I know you’re in control. I know you have a plan. I know you will protect me.”

Then set aside your “why” questions and trust God—no matter what.