The Role of Doubt in Knowing and Loving God

There are those who say that we should never question God. They say that to question God is to disrespect Him, or to second-guess His goodness and control over the events and circumstances of life.

Whoever says this should read the Psalms. These are poems in the Bible, and they are full of questions asked to God, of doubts, and expressions of despairing feelings towards God. The writers of the Psalms desire for God to answer for circumstances in their lives that seem inexplainable. The writers question God’s character, whether He is who he says He is, Good.

The writer of Job expresses similar questions and doubts. Job was a man who lost everything he owned, his family, and his health. The only person he did not lose was his wife, and she told him to curse God and die. The book of Job is full of why questions, and full of Job’s despair.

To question God is a healthy exercise. Events in life often warrant legitimate wondering about God’s control over and care for His creation. To doubt and to question means that I believe that God exists – I am exerting faith in God when I question Him. With an attitude of truly wanting to know, and a willingness to recognize our role as being created (not having absolute control), questioning God can actually end up leading to greater trust. Approach God as a child, seeking to know, and to understand. Listen for His answers.

At the end of the book of Job, God responds to Job’s questions and despair. He answers with His creative power, asking Job if He was around when the trees, the sky, the animals, weather patterns, etc. were created. He doesn’t give exact or direct reasons for the loss of Job’s possessions, family, and health. But the implicit understanding is that God can be trusted. His wisdom goes beyond our wildest imagination, just as His creation goes beyond our ability to comprehend.

Dear friend, you can trust the LORD. Ask Him your questions. Approach Him with the why questions in your own heart, maybe about your own circumstances, or about why certain things are the way they are. Tell the LORD you truly desire wisdom and understanding. Wait patiently for Him and listen for His answers… allow Him to reassure you with His compassionate love and deep wisdom.