In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God. Job 1:22 (NLT)

One of the perils that is overlooked by those who emphasize health and prosperity is illustrated in the life of Job. As the book of Job commences, Job is already a wealthy man as far as family and possessions are concerned. He had been blessed and there was a wall of protection surrounding him, but more important than Job’s comfort and convenience is the glory and reputation of God. The trials that Job went through resulted from God giving Satan permission to test Job. There is a distinction between the acknowledgment that God allows things to happen to us and blaming God for them. Another way of interpreting this is “Job did not sin by charging God foolishly.” Job understood that if he was to receive and acknowledge the good things that God gives, he must be ready and willing to accept the bad things as well. (Job 2:10)

Our view of God is revealed in time of trials and difficulties. If you see God as a “harsh taskmaster” then you probably believe that God is just waiting for you to make a mistake so that he can punish you. You may lash out and accuse God of being unfair. However, if you believe that goodness is a primary attribute of God, you will not be as likely to blame God or to accuse him of foolishness. Through his trials, Job’s confidence in God increased to the point where he could say, “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him;” Job 13:15a (NIV) This was just another way of saying that Job had so much confidence in God that even if God were to take his life it would only be because he has something better in store for Job.

Something else to consider when troubles arise is to whom are we airing our complaints? If we cry out to God asking for answers, He will hear us. Conversely, we must not blame God before other people, especially those who are outside the family of faith. ‘I said to myself, “I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say. I will hold my tongue when the ungodly are around me.”’ Psalm 39:1 (NLT) How many problems have been created by Christians, who when going through a difficult period of time in their lives, have spoken unwisely to those on the outside? “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” Proverbs 10:19 (NLT)

Taking the time to watch and listen is essential to avoid blaming God or accusing him foolishly. In Psalm 73, Asaph looks around and sees that those who do not serve God are living the life of pleasure and luxury and he is very close to making an accusation against God. “Look at these wicked people—enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply. Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain.” Psalm 73:12–14 (NLT)

Asaph is a leader and people will give attention to what he says, but just in time he comes to his senses and refrains from his accusation. “If I had really spoken this way to others, I would have been a traitor to your people. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. But what a difficult task it is!  Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction.” Psalm 73:15–18 (NLT) The key for Asaph was entering the sanctuary of God which is another way of saying that he spent time in God’s presence. When we try to figure things out apart from God we are likely to come to the wrong conclusion and conceivably end up blaming God, but in his presence there is clarity and understanding.

There are ways to approach God when we do not understand what is going on, but we must be very careful, because as leaders our lives and our actions are being examined and responding foolishly to adversity or perceived injustice can do great harm to ourselves and others. Regardless of what happens, do not sin by blaming God.