The Need to Know

High school journalism coaches teach their students the five basic questions that must be answered in each article for the school newspaper: who, what, when, where and why. I don’t know if how is left out because it isn’t as important or because it doesn’t begin with a W. When we are seeking the truth, those are good questions to ask, especially when we study events in the Bible. However, when we seek answers from God in prayer, we often get hung up on two questions: why and when. Why me, Lord? Why am I in this situation? Why did this happen to me, my spouse, my friend or my relative? Why? Then we ask when? When will this be over? When will you answer my prayers? When will you open that new door for me? When?

God doesn’t always answer those questions. It might be because our finite mind couldn’t handle His infinite answer, but I think there is another reason those questions remain unanswered. When I was in the Air Force my security clearance allowed me to handle and read the most top secret of documents but only if I had “the need to know”. Just because I could access certain material didn’t mean I needed to know it. I think Job encountered this when he sought the reason for his situation and how much longer it would last. He was informed in no uncertain terms (beginning at Job 38:1) that he was in no position to question God – he simply didn’t have the need to know many things including why or when.

As we come to God asking for relief, here are some better questions to ask Him in prayer. What do you want me to do about this situation?  What can I learn from this experience? How will going through this allow me to help others experiencing the same thing? Then, instead of asking Him why it occurred or when it will pass, just pray for strength to wait upon His perfect timing.

God is all-knowing – we are not! We don’t need to be. We just need to be obedient to His word and the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Obedience doesn’t require our understanding. Obedience requires our love for Him, our trust in His plan and our prompt action. When we do our part, He will always do the part that is beyond our pay grade or ability. I’ve learned all of this through bitter experience. Don’t follow my example. Be obedient to Him.

 

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