It’s Okay to Ask God, “Why?”

Have you ever wondered if you can take your questions to God? Most of us have encountered circumstances or events that leave us asking, ”Why?”

When fear, shock, confusion, or grief come upon us, it is natural to have questions. Still, some believe that it is never okay to question God.  But, perhaps the sincere questioning, seeking of a genuine answer when we have none, can actually bring us closer to Him. And for those who haven’t believed He’s there, the simple question of “why” can lead them to His arms.

Even Peter asked, “Why?” when Jesus washed his dirty feet before He was betrayed.  Did the Lord  chastise Peter for his question? No!  He showed the questioning disciple compassion and love in His answer : “Jesus said to him, ‘You do not understand now what I am doing, but you will understand later on,’ ” (John 13:7). Jesus reassured Peter that, though in the present the answer would not be revealed, he would understand at the right time.

Questions are part of a close relationship, and while we must always approach God with reverence, respect and trust, we can bring Him our honest questions.  We may not get an answer right away, perhaps not even in this lifetime, but later on we will understand: “For the Lord grants wisdom! His every word is a treasure of knowledge and understanding. He grants good sense to the godly–his saints. He is their shield, protecting them and guarding their pathway,” (Proverbs 2: 6-8). God even invites us to search for answers to our questions in His Word–a treasure filled with knowledge and understanding pertaining to the happenings of life.

Often, we will have to live  for a time with missing pieces to the puzzle of “why.” Waiting in those times is painful, but our pain can produce renewed faith, trust, and an ability to help others when it is their turn to wait.  God’s timing is perfect,  only He can weave everything together into something beautiful–even the painful questions.

Think of a time when you’ve struggled to understand why. Did you feel you could go to God with your sincere longing to understand? What will you do with the treasure of His Word in helping you find those answers?