In Stephen Hawking’s final book, A Brief History of the Big Questions, he shared his thoughts on suffering and the universe. He remarked, “Maybe I offended someone above, but I believe that everything can be explained by natural laws.” In his view, only science can provide answers, so he considered God unnecessary, or at least uncertain. Unfortunately, Hawking's search ended there.

Job, on the other hand, did not give up on God in the midst of his suffering. He continued to ask God questions in the hope of receiving answers. Eventually, God responded to Job out of a whirlwind, not by directly explaining his suffering, but by emphasizing His omnipotence and wisdom through a series of questions about creation and natural world.

Through these rhetorical questions, filled with divine authority, God shifted Job's focus from his pain to the glory and sovereignty of God. Instead of telling Job why he was suffering, He made Job realize who he was - the One who created the heavens and the earth, who rules over all things, and who is full of wisdom. This helped Job to realize that although he did not understand his suffering, he could still trust in this almighty God.

God does not always explain every trial we face, but he always reveals himself to us in the process. What he gives us is not just a set of rules, but a deeper understanding of who he is.

Hawking chose to trust in the laws of nature, but Job encountered God in the whirlwind (Job 42:5).

Prayer

Dear Father, even when we do not understand, help us trust that you are wise and in control. Reveal yourself to us in every storm and strengthen our faith in you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.