The Question:
Does God understand when we get mad at him?
– CS from Tennessee
Part 1: Get down to brass tacks
Get down to brass tacks (Part 1)
Does God understand when we get mad at him? I chuckle. As I read your question I say to myself “Oh, I certainly hope so!” Been there. Done that. If not, most of us are in big trouble. For instance here is what Job said and it sounds a lot like an angry frustrated outburst to me: “Behold, I cry, ‘Violence!’ but I get no answer; I shout for help, but there is no justice. He has walled up my way so that I cannot pass; and He has put darkness on my paths.” (Job 19:7-8)
We know in our heart that God never makes a mistake and that he is on the throne over our life and circumstances and yet we often don’t understand why in the world he doesn’t DO SOMETHING that we can see so clearly needs to be done. So, our response is anger.
Usually the real problem is “missing information” on our part. If we could step into the spiritual realm and see things from God’s perspective we would agree that he is doing everything exactly as it ought to be done. We’ll thank him later. Instead, we are often walking in shadows and that’s where faith comes in. We have to trust even though we don’t understand.
Before anger at God begins to get a real grip on us, let’s handle it the right way so sin doesn’t gain a foothold. Ephesians 4:26 can be of help. “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.” How can our anger (even at God) become sin? If we don’t handle it in a timely manner (many suns go down and we’re still angry) it becomes bitterness, self-pity, hopelessness, despair, unbelief…and more.
Be honest with God in expressing how you really feel but be honest enough to also admit what’s behind it. “Lord, the real reason I’m angry with you is because I think I know better than you. I want my own way in this matter. I’m not trusting that you know best.”When you get your motives down to brass tacks it’s a lot easier to find a path out of anger and into real faith and genuine trust.
The day will come, either in our lifetime or in eternity when we will fully agree with all God’s decisions on his handling of our affairs. Anger will give way to awe about how smart he really was. All the better if we can praise him and thank him NOW as if we already knew!
Note: I’m reminded of a devotional I once wrote illustrating this point. Read, “Poor Little Chewy” and see if you agree.
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