“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me, if you have understanding.”
– Job 38:4
After vast suffering at the hands of Satan and suffering through the miserable advice and spiritual abuse of his “friends”, Job heard from God Himself. Job had been crying out to God, questioning God, arguing with God, and doubting God’s goodness. Now, he’s blessed to hear from God directly.
However, God doesn’t explain Himself. He doesn’t answer Job’s questions. He doesn’t explain the work of Satan or God’s purpose in permitting an evil adversary to work in the world for a time. God doesn’t defend or justify Himself. Instead, He does something much, much better. He reminds Job of His infinite knowledge, eternal perspective, and absolute authority over all of creation. God asks a series of questions that contrast the finite perspective and understanding of any human being with the infinite greatness of Almighty God.
These questions remind Job, and us, that God’s way aren’t our ways. He doesn’t suffer from our flaws, weaknesses, or tainted motives. His thoughts are infinitely superior to our thoughts. His understanding of how all things in creation work together across all of time is infinitely greater than our understanding could ever be. God’s power and involvement in the universe is both unlimited and meticulously detailed. He moves galaxies and cares about the finest details of your life.
When you endure long seasons of suffering, it’s natural to believe that answers to the question of “why” will satisfy your hurting soul. They won’t. What will truly satisfy your soul is a deeper appreciation, relationship, and worship of the infinitely good, wise, powerful, and present God of the universe. Rather than argue with Him, find true and lasting peace in knowing Him more richly. Cultivate His presence in your life. Bask in His goodness, love, and mercy. Soak in His Scripture. Meditate on His infinite greatness and personal presence. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t know everything. Rejoice in knowing the One Who does!