He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
—Job 2:10
The Bible tells us Job never sinned in what he said, despite the arduous tests God bestowed upon him. However, Job felt sadness, anger and hopelessness at his plight like any other person. Scripture says he was in so much pain from boils that he scraped himself with broken pottery. At one point, Job wished he had never been born.
Since our world is fallen, many Christians will face intense testing like Job. Maybe you’re one of those Christians. Your test could be a cancer diagnosis—for your 5-year-old child. It could be homelessness, intense persecution at school or work, or false accusations. A natural disaster or the killing of a loved one might test you. These aren’t average spiritual tests, and they’re likely to leave you asking, “Why me?”
Perhaps a better question, though, is “Why not me?” In the midst of a test, it can be difficult to believe God can use your circumstances for anything good, but He can. Often, the people tested the most find that God had an incredible plan and testimony in mind for them. You won’t know what your testimony is right away. It may take months or years to discover what it is, and after you find out, you might still say, “Lord, I don’t want it!”
Remember, though, that the human mind is finite. We see only what we can make sense of, but God sees the big picture. Your recovery from a natural disaster might encourage others who are struggling on a smaller scale. Your child’s cancer diagnosis may put you in contact with the best and most understanding friends you’ve ever had. False accusations might stir a new passion for godly justice in you.
When terrible circumstances come, it’s okay to ask God why. After that, ask why not. Ask Him to show you how to handle your situation with His grace.
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