Is it OK to Question God?

In the end of Job, after God has replied to Job and questioned who was challenging His wisdom, Job recognized who he is compared to God. We find this in Job 42:3, 6.

“I have spoken about things I did not understand, things too wondrous for me to know… I reject my words and am sorry for them; I am dust and ashes.”

Job 42:3,6 CSB

How does he get to this place, though? It is found in verse 5. “I have heard reports about you, but now my eyes have seen you.” (Job 42:5). When the Lord reveals Himself to us, it tends to change our perspective, even if what we have said it technically right (see Job 42:8).

Yet in Job’s challenge, in his desire to figure out why things had gone the way they did, he gained godly wisdom and drew closer to God.

God honored his request, and in this Job got a better perspective on things.

Now that God had drawn close to him, he realized who he really is in comparison. He was only ashes and dust compared to God. He gains a new understanding of God’s omnipotence and in that realizes the chasm between him and God.

I have heard people say that it is not right to question God, but I think it depends on the purpose of the questioning.

Are we desiring to really understand and get to know God better, or are we just looking to complain for the place we find ourselves in. Do we desire to hear God speak, and for Him to give us an answer? Or are we just trying to blame God and justify ourselves.

Lord, I pray for those who are questioning You today. For those who don’t understand what is going on around them (COVID19, racism, riots, illnesses, financial insecurities, etc.), may You speak to them in their pain, in their struggles, in their challenges, and help them to see You more clearly. And may we understand that although we are mere ashes and dust, You love us still. Not only that, but You have done what is necessary for us to be in a relationship with You. May our questioning draw us closer to You!