God’s ways past tracing out

"O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out!" (Romans 11:33)

Our knowledge is limited. We see only little fragments of truth. We are like children on the shore of the sea, gathering a few pebbles and shells — while the ocean's depths are hidden from us. Says Zophar: "Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens — what can you do? They are deeper than the depths of the grave — what can you know?" (Job 11:7-8)

Job himself, speaking of God's works in nature and in providence, adds: "And these are but the outer fringe of his works; how faint the whisper we hear of him! Who then can understand the thunder of his power?" (Job 26:14)

We ought to learn the lesson. God is not a man — not one of ourselves. If we could understand Him, He would not be God. His greatness puts Him beyond our comprehension. We cannot hope to know the reasons for His acts. Some of His ways with us are mysterious. We are perplexed; we say, "God cannot love me — or He would not do these things."

We should learn to trust God even in the deepest mysteries, not expecting to understand — but sure of His love and goodness — even when it is darkest and when His face is veiled. We should be silent unto God and trust Him, when we cannot fathom Him. That is the truest faith.

J.R.M.