Abraham questioned God about His promise. Moses questioned Him about His plan; Job about his suffering. And David, well David seemed to question God about a lot of things.
Is it okay when I find myself questioning God? The people listed above seemed comfortable with it – and in some instances God answered them. But there are also instances where God rebuked the questioner. Or as Paul says in Romans, “Who are you to question God?[1]”
There is a difference between questioning an event or situation and questioning the goodness or character of God. David frequently pours out emotional rants and pleas to God only to end the psalm with praise. He trusted God. I, too, can pour out my heart. I can question what I see going on. But since I know God’s character, my soul can be at peace.
Another distinction would be sincerity in searching for truth. Asking without wanting an answer is rhetorical. It is disrespectful. And it’s a challenge. Do I have honest questions or am I looking to vindicate myself and pick a fight? The Pharisees approached Jesus with many questions, including the source of His authority, yet His replies never satisfied them.
God invites honest and vigorous conversation, even if I’m telling Him that I disagree or don’t understand something. He is the best place to take our concerns and pain. God can handle it. He is not put off by questions and voicing my dissent. We have relationship and He knows my heart. I go to Him with my doubt and confusion because He is the only one able to answer. And even if He chooses not to, the struggle reminds me Who holds the answers, who doesn’t (me!) and that I can rely on His goodness.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9
[1] Romans 9:20
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