“I Don’t Understand”

Why did God create mosquitos, bull sharks, and broccoli? Why are some people born with defects and deformities? Why do good people suffer? Why do evil people prosper? Over the years I’ve heard many complaints and questions regarding God and the things that He has allowed to be a part of His creation and our experience on earth. I have a few questions myself from time to time. When I can’t come up with a reasonable answer, I have fallen back on this passage more than once. 

There are times that I’ve been indignant about a situation only to find out that I wasn’t privy to all the facts. I have to believe the same about this world around me – so much of which is beyond my senses let alone my understanding. There’s a quote I’ve struggled to remember that goes something like, “If I had God’s power you would see some changes around here. But if I had His wisdom, things would pretty much stay the same.” 

When our kids question us about our decisions and methods, sometimes all we can say is “trust me,” knowing that there are certain things that they don’t understand yet (due to lack of experience and context) that are for their growth and protection. We must recognize that our Heavenly Father wants the same for us. And in times when the Almighty God doesn’t seem so almighty in our estimation, it is our own limitations at work. 

While using the HEAR method (see below) consider the following questions: 

• What is something in your past that you questioned God on, but looking back you now see how He used it? 
• Where are you choosing to trust God today? 

Highlight – what words or phrases jump out at you? 

Explain – what does the passage mean? 

Apply – how does the passage intersect with your life today? 

Respond – how is God leading you to respond?

Jon Price, Associate Pastor