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After losing my husband, there were times my prayers with the Lord seemed to always be whispered questions. Many thoughts became centered on phrases containing the word why. Why now, or why this, were some of the many questions I asked the Lord as I faced widowhood. It seemed I could find no other words to frame my thoughts or direct me forward. It would have been easy to get stuck in those questions and let them cause me to withdraw from my trust in the Lord. Instead, I turned to the pages of God’s word and found refuge, knowing that nothing I face is meaningless and that the Lord welcomes us to share our hearts with Him.

I have found the Psalms to be a teacher that has brought me closer to the Lord when I have questions but no words to speak. I read passages in the Psalms and saw that the writers often experienced pain and betrayal. Against the backdrop of captivity and destruction, several psalmists recognized their circumstances and reflected on God’s past power and might. Like me, they needed some hope. Then I read Psalm 46 and found words of trust, thanksgiving, and a clear focus on God. This psalm does not promise an explanation for suffering; it points us toward God’s presence in the midst of it.

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV)

A refuge shelters us from danger, and strength gives courage in the midst of struggle. God’s help appears both present and proven. It gave me confidence to know He is ready and reliable, whatever happens. As I read and considered the words, I found that God could handle my questions. Our God is powerful and does not shift when the mountains do. The Bible is filled with God listening to the questions of God’s followers. Asking God a question requires honest prayer, a quiet mind, and patience to listen for guidance. God longs for me to share my heart and seek Him for answers. Even Jesus’ question from the cross was not an expression of unbelief but a real and legitimate cry in the midst of His suffering.

My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?
Matthew 27:46b (NASV)

Jesus was not doubting God had a plan, but instead speaking a question that was real, raw, and filled with faith. Jesus’ cry expresses the depth of His suffering while also echoing Psalm 22. I may ask God why, but I may not always receive an explanation this side of heaven. As I search for answers, my time can fill with necessary tasks of daily living, as well as distractions that keep me from leaning into the Lord to meet me where I am. When I remember God’s presence and strength, hope fills my heart.

The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our fortress.
Psalm 46:7 (ESV)

We are a distracted people in this day and time. Our days are filled with all kinds of digital, cultural, and internal noise. When grief brings questions, it’s tempting to stay busy. I can let necessary responsibilities fill every moment and keep me from sitting honestly with God. Instead, when I feel the world’s challenges aimed at me, I find prayer helps me better understand how to manage my thoughts and emotions.

Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

What does it mean to “be still”? Being still is not passive or an escape. It is not even an excuse for indifference. Stillness is an act of faith. As I read, I realized that God’s presence and power can become stronger when I am still. I began to ask myself what it means to “know that I am God.” For me, these words are the refusal to believe that the world rests on my shoulders and the confidence to know that God will be exalted among the nations. His purposes do not falter, and His providence governs even my doubts and fears.

The psalmist does not say, “I will be still “. There is no illusion of personal strength. All he does is describe the world as it is and recognize that God is powerful for each of us. That is what happens when we decide to put our faith in God, although the world is confusing, disordered, and beyond our power to control. Only then does God become our refuge and fortress. One day everyone will acknowledge His supremacy and power. Faith does not require us to stop asking questions. Instead, it draws us closer to the Lord and provides comfort and courage to face life’s struggles.

Lord, we come to you asking for wisdom and direction as we move forward each day. Hear our words and questions as we seek Your plans. Give us ears to hear and eyes to see You working in our lives. Forgive us for any doubts and fears, and provide us with confidence and peace as we walk with You each moment. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.