"Why, O Lord?" June 5 Readings: 2 Kings 24-25, 2 Chronicles 36, Psalm 74, 79

Today's Reading - 2 Kings 24-25, 2 Chronicles 36, Psalm 74, 79

Background

With a few exceptions (such as Psalm 51), we read the Psalms divorced from their background. Many times, we do not know what the experiential basis of the Psalm was, but sometimes we do. Psalm 74 (and 79) is believed to be related to the downfall of Judah that is described in our readings today.

Devotional "Why, O Lord?"

Israel never seemed to put two and two together. They never added their sin to God's holiness to explain their sufferings. Granted, the false prophets told them that God would never do such a thing, that he was a God who only blessed them no matter how they lived.

Then, the judgment fell and they were left in confusion - even the Psalmists. "Why, God?" "How long will your judgment last?" "When will we see your mercy again?" Like Habakkuk, they never understood how God could use wicked men like the Babylonians to accomplish his purposes.

In Psalm 74:10-11, the Psalmist asks the question that has been asked so many times.

How long, O God, is the foe to scoff?

    Is the enemy to revile your name forever?

Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand?

The simple answer was simple in this case. Israel had brought down judgment upon itself by idolatry, by infidelity, by carelessness in obeying the law of God. They had no one to blame but themselves.

But often the answers to these questions are shrouded in mystery. Yes, sometimes we suffer as the consequence of our own sin. But sometimes we suffer because of other's sin. Sometimes, we suffer to test our faith, or to accomplish a greater good. There are many reasons in Scripture why a believer might suffer. God is in control and is at work. 

Eventually, justice and righteousness will come. It may be in this world, it might be in the next, but vengeance belongs to God and he will repay. His justice is perfect. 

But God seldom answers the question why. He just responds "who." Trust me. I'm handling it. The wicked may prosper for a season and the righteous may suffer. Things may seem upside down in this world, but know that God is in control and he will settle the books perfectly. Our perfect God will mete out perfect justice. 

And in the end, when the last page of history has been written, God will stand supreme as Sovereign Lord. All will bow before Jesus. The flag of God's glory will be unfurled and all will see his perfection. 

In that day, the question "why?" will be fully, eternally, and overwhelmingly answered by God's justice and righteous power. 

Father, I thank you that you are in control. Help me to trust you even when I cannot understand your plan or your purpose. 

Think and Pray

Are there situations in your life in which you are asking God "why?"
Remember that we are often not given the answer to that question but are simply told to trust God.