When we encounter tragedies in life, we are confronted with the ancient problem of God’s goodness and the presence of evil/disaster in the world. Many times, we may just ignore this problem because it makes us uncomfortable. Other times we may choose to trust that it was supposed to happen. Yet, at other times we may grow angry and resentful toward God. How could God let an innocent child die despite praying for that child? God is all-powerful (omnipotent) after all. He allows everything that happens on this earth. I do not have an answer to this problem, and I believe that anyone who says that they do is a liar. However, I do know that we ought to trust God, that he will make everything right and will execute perfect justice, even if we may not experience it in our lifetime.

Yet, we still experience pain, anger, and confusion towards God. All these things are perfectly human and righteous (that is, if done in the right way). The Psalms are full of laments and petitions to God, calling into question his justice and faithfulness. One of the most famous is Psalm 22, which begins, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Far from my deliverance are the words of my groaning. O my God, I cry by day, but You do not answer; And by night, but I have no rest” (vv. 1, 2). Does this sound like someone who is stoically accepting the pains of life? This verse actually calls into question why God is not rescuing David or answering his prayers, even blaming God for forsaking him. Through this psalm and many of the other psalms of lament, we see this process of distress resulting in a renewed confidence in God (Contrast Ps 22:1–18 with vv. 19–31). I believe that this is a process we ought to go through in our prayers, both publicly and privately. It helps us to communicate with God even when we are upset with him and gives voice to these very real emotions that all humans experience. Most importantly, they help us keep our faith and renew our confidence in God, that he is both sovereign and good.