Job 11-13, Acts 9:1-21 • Key Verses: Job 13:20-22
I've often heard people ask, “Is it all right to ask God why?” People ask that question because
they want to do just that, to ask God why.
What is the answer? Well, we know that Job did. Not just in this passage but in others he raised
the subject. He said, ‘“He is not a man like me that I might answer him, that we might confront
each other in court. If only there were someone to arbitrate between us, to lay his hand upon us
both …. Then I would speak up without fear of him” (9:32-33, 35). And most of chapter 3
records Job asking why.
To ask is one thing; to accuse is another. Sometimes the why question is more an accusation than
an inquiry. Without a doubt, we are not to be people who accuse God. If our asking is a way of
calling God to give an accounting for what He has done, then that is wrong. God does not have
to give an answer to us.
So consider why you want to ask God the why question. If it is to get Him to give you a
satisfactory answer, then the answer is no, it is not right to ask why.
If, on the other hand, you are trying to understand what God is doing so you can learn what He is
teaching and accomplish what He wishes, then it is permissible. We may pray, “God, help me to
understand,” but remember that you are not in a position to demand an answer.

Examine your heart before you ask why. Remember, He is God and you’re not. And whether you
ask or not, remember to trust Him and obey.

Woodrow Kroll & Tony Beckett
www.backtothebible.in