When Faith DisappointsSample

Trusting God in an Unfair World

God’s protection is in question when we think about the atrocities in our world: school shootings, sexual violence, systemic injustice…. Where is his protection for the victims of those evils? Can we trust God if we are not sure he will protect us in those moments?

These questions create real pain for us. How do we navigate such problematic realities?

Job was an upright man who suffered the loss of his wealth, children, and health in a series of unfortunate events. Understandably, Job was frustrated with the suffering he experienced, because he felt like he had been punished unfairly. He asked God to explain himself.

God reminded Job that Job didn’t have the experience for the consultation:

Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?

Tell me, if you know so much.

Who determined its dimensions

and stretched out the surveying line?

What supports its foundations,

and who laid its cornerstone

as the morning stars sang together

and all the angels shouted for joy? (Job 38:4-7)

Job never found out why God allowed him to suffer. Job, however, continued to trust God because he understood God knew more than him and had more experience than him.

Tim Keller noted, “Just because we don’t see a reason for evil and suffering doesn’t mean there isn't a reason for it.” This realization pushes us to trust in God’s character. If you believe that God is good, just, loving, and faithful, then when you experience suffering, you must choose to trust him instead of abandoning him.

Help me process the deep wounds in my soul, Lord. Help me to trust your character when difficult situations make me want to question you. Please help me see your hand in the pain.