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To ask God why a particular calamity has struck appears innocent unless a wrong attitude prevails. I am not referring to the instant cry to God when tragedy strikes our home, but rather when we seek persistent answers in a demanding, accusatory, and challenging manner. We cannot remain in this mode for long before it produces an inner hardness. Have you ever deemed that God has made a mistake or has allowed an injustice into your life? Doing so, removes His sovereignty.

I likened this to forming a snowball – If we continue to “roll around” an idea that’s not girded with truth, it not only becomes larger and larger, but, as it rolls down the hill, it also gains momentum.

When dismantling thoughts, regarding God’s character, plant in our spirit, and we continue to nurture them, they begin to produce pride and self-pity, and a root of bitterness attaches to our heart. This process will soon destroy all communion and fellowship with the Lord. Its grip corrupts and tarnishes us from the inside out.

In addition, a bitter attitude will spread to others around us; therefore, a warning emerges, never allow a root of bitterness to besiege us (Heb 12:15).

In, “Glass Walls,” I share a story of confrontation with my pastor. Thankfully, on that fateful day, I realized that, while my “why” questions partially exposed the natural anguish in my heart, they also revealed anger toward God. My words were demanding and accused God of not effectively working in my life. Although the rebuke stung momentarily, my outbursts revealed self-pity and pride. My pastor had graciously come to my rescue. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Proverbs 27:6b). He loved me enough to warn me when I was allowing Satan to have a foothold in my thoughts.

When I ponder the world and all its troubles I still wonder “Why”? but I realize the unanswered quandaries of life will always persist. Like Job, I have no answers to the questions God presented to him! (Job 38-40) It is with certainty that I trust God is in control, and I gladly embrace that the Creator of heaven and earth makes no mistakes.

Lord, I trust in You no matter what trials come. I believe that you have overcome the world, even though problems are ever present. You are my constant source of peace. You keep my lamp burning. You are in control! Amen.