The world watched the news in horror as the sightseeing helicopter flying over the river tore into pieces. As the main rotor and tail broke off, the cabin plunged into the waters below, with the pilot and a family of five trapped inside. Just days after the tragedy that had taken the lives of his sister, brother-in-law, niece, and two nephews, the brother was at the site honoring his loved ones. “They left together,” he said.
Life can change in a moment, leaving us reeling from loss we can’t explain. Job also suffered unspeakable loss and sorrow. One tragic day, messengers told Job that his servants had been killed and his livestock were stolen or dead (Job 1:13-17). Then Job received even more devastating news. While his seven sons and three daughters were together, a mighty wind caused the house they were in to collapse, killing them (vv. 18-19). “At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship” (v. 20). In anguish, Job said, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (v. 21).
Job didn’t know why he had to suffer, but even in his darkest hour he worshiped God. Breaking His silence, God reminded Job of His great wisdom and power, and he was able to trust God’s sovereign plan (chs. 38-42).
We may never understand why tragedies strike, but we can take our pain to God, who comforts us.
When has God comforted you during a tragedy? How can you trust Him in your grief?
Dear God, please help me trust You even when I’m suffering.
Amid Job’s extreme pain, his words reflected a worshipful understanding of the sovereignty of God (Job 1:21). The psalmist also recognized God’s power and authority and said, “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2). Believers in Jesus find the same comfort knowing that God controls all things, and nothing happens apart from His eternal gaze. The apostle Paul celebrated God’s sovereignty with these words: “For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever!” (Romans 11:35). Today, when we experience trials, we can take our pain to God knowing that our lives are under His watchful care.
For further study, read: Grieving with those who Grieve
