Dear First name / friend,
“When His timing seems questionable, His lack of intervention seems hurtful, and His promises seem doubtful, I get afraid. I get confused. And left alone with those feelings, I can’t help but feel disappointed that God isn’t doing what I assume a good God should do.” ~Lysa Terkeurst, It’s Not Supposed to Be That Way
Not too long ago, I was in this place. During the pandemic, I coughed continuously. I coughed so much I bruised my ribs and ended up in urgent care due to the pain. I went to doctor after doctor seeking answers, but found none. No one could tell me what was wrong or why I was coughing. At one point I was on eight medications with no relief. I began to wonder, "Is this going to be my new way of living?” I was tired--sick and tired, literally. After over a year, I was mad. My thoughts went something like this: God where are you? Do you see what I'm going through? Why aren't you intervening? I'm not asking for much; I'd settle for simply a diagnosis. I questioned if God was good.
Until…I was challenged by God. The question He posed to me was, “Am I good? Or, am I only good when you get what you want, when you want it, and in a way that you'll understand it?" Ouch! I had reduced God to something I can understand instead of acknowledging his greatness. As J.D. Greer writes, “God often provides no explanation for His ways. Instead, He gives us a revelation of His character.”
Encouragement
Have you ever been disappointed in God? You are not alone! This email is not to minimize what you're going through or have gone through; I'm sure it's hard stuff. But, I do want to encourage you to change your view of God in your storm. He's greater! Redefine “good God,” and start telling your storm about God instead of God about your storm.
