To what extent are we able to question God (like Habakkuk) without crossing the line into doubt? And is there a danger zone when we question God?
Answer:
The questions we ask of God come in a myriad of forms. For example, we may question God’s will, wisdom, actions, and outcomes in our own lives and the lives of others. We may question whether we believe in God based on our understanding of science, sociology, psychology, history, etc. In this regard, it’s important for the person attempting to answer such a question to understand the specific nature of the question and the motive(s) of the questioner.
Regarding the questions we ask, I will say that there are generally two ways people approach others and God for answers: Cynics and Critics. Cynics are not so much interested in answers to their questions as much as they are casting aspersions, doubts, or objects. The focus for these types of questioners is not understanding. In such cases, no amount of information / answers will move them. Such individuals prefer to cast aspersions at God’s character and his integrity. Questioners who approach God and others in this way would be in “the danger zone.”
The flip side of the Cynic is the Critic. The defining differences between this person and the Cynic is the sincerity with which they approach God, and others, with the questions they have. Often such questioners come with intellectual and emotional objections, reasoning from either their head or heart. In either case, I believe it is with such people that God wants to deal and and from whom He welcomes questions.
In short, the issue is not whether we should question God, but in what manner — and for what reason — we question Him. As for Habakkuk, he had questions for God concerning the timing and outworking of the Lord’s plan. Habakkuk, rather than being rebuked for his questions, is patiently answered, and the prophet ends his book with a song of praise to the Lord. Many questions are put to God in the Psalms (Psalms 10, 44, 74, 77). These are the cries of the persecuted who are desperate for God’s intervention and salvation. Although God does not always answer our questions in the way we want, we conclude from these passages that God welcomes a sincere question from an earnest heart.
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