After tragedy struck Job’s life, he moved into the natural and normal period of questioning. Then, as we saw last time, God rescued Job from his downward spiral and refocused his vision. Job was looking at his situation; God said, “Time to look at me.” With his eyes on the person and character of God, Job responds.

Job 42:1-6
Then Job answered the Lord and said: “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’ Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. ‘Hear, and I will speak; I will question you, and you make it known to me.’ I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes.”

First, Job declares God’s omnipotence. God’s power enables him to do anything he desires. Second, Job acknowledges God’s incomprehensibility. God acts in ways our feeble and limited human minds simply cannot grasp. Yes, even in tragedy, there are things “too wonderful” for us to know. Finally, Job proclaims God’s revelation. Job moved from knowledge about God to seeing and experiencing God. This overwhelming knowledge caused Job to repent. Job’s heart turned from himself to God.

If you are going through a difficult situation, let me remind you that this change of heart doesn’t happen overnight. It is part of the healing process, and God gives us some space to ask our questions. Also, it is not so clear cut as “now I’m in the questioning phase” or “now I am in the proclaiming God’s character phase.” Questions and faith weave in and out of our emotions just as our laughter turns into tears and tears into laughter. But just as in the grieving process, the pain, while it may never go away, becomes less, so questions, while they may never go away, are taken over by the overwhelming pattern of trust and faith. So…keep looking to God…even through your tears. Keep talking to him…even with your questions. He can always be trusted.

Father, be a special comfort today to the person going through a great challenge. Hold them close to you. Help them experience your presence. In Christ’s name. Amen.