WHY
IS THIS HAPPENING TO ME?

Topics: Affliction; Fear of God; Mercy; Vindictiveness

References: Job 16:12; Psalm 90:7; 102:9–10

Is not the question “Why is God letting this happen to me?” really a question that seeks to find out how God feels toward me? When I have pursued the “why” question by asking, “Could you tell me what you think might be the answer?” I have usually gotten a response that reveals the person’s perception of their present relationship with God. Often it is concern that the suffering indicates a vindictive God who is angry with them.

—Arthur H. Becker, Ministry with Older Persons (Augsburg Fortress, 1986)