God, Don’t You Care?

O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear?

Habakkuk 1:2 esv

Some of us have this same question in our hearts that the prophet Habakkuk asked—but we dare not ask it. The question seems so disrespectful. But the Bible gives us two instances where people asked Jesus the same question. The first takes place with the disciples in the boat as they are crossing a lake. A storm approaches and tosses the boat, the waves crashing with enough force to destroy it. The second occurs at a dinner party hosted by Mary and Martha. As Martha is preparing the meal in the kitchen, she becomes irritated that Mary isn’t helping. In both stories, the question is asked, “Lord, don’t you care?”

We can probably all relate to times like these when we feel overwhelmed and alone. So how should we manage a situation when it seems our prayers go unanswered or God hasn’t stepped in and fixed everything? First, we should be honest with God about how we are feeling. We can voice our perceptions and expectations without fear of reprisal. Second, we can trust God’s history. If we look back over our lives, we can see how God has provided for us, even when we didn’t ask. Third, we can remember that God’s care for us does not mean the circumstances will always resolve as we expect. Sometimes God resolves our problems exactly as we have asked. Other times, we experience many twists and turns before he brings the resolution he sees fit.

We have to be intentional about letting go of our demands on God. We have to surrender and sit at his feet and learn from him as we persevere.

God is just as merciful in the things he does not allow, as he is in the things he does.

Andrena Sawyer

The Bible tells us that God will meet all our needs. He feeds the birds of the air and clothes the grass with the splendor of lilies. How much more, then, will he care for us, who are made in his image?

Charles Stanley

God sometimes answers our prayers by giving us what we would have asked for had we known what he knows.

J. D. Greear

For Further Reflection

Mark 4:35–40; Luke 10:38–42; Habakkuk 1:1–11; Psalm 77:1–20

Today’s Prayer

I confess my doubts. So often I want life to go the way I think is best. Help me to trust you in all circumstances, knowing that you are working out your purposes in my life. Amen.