June 26, 2007 marked the 18th year since my father went home to be with the Lord. I can't believe it sometimes, it still feels like yesterday to me. I guess that is the eternal part in all of us--made in the image of God. It is so wonderful to have the absolute assurance--the incredible promise that I will see my Dad again someday. I will feel that great big bear hug again . . . .

I thought this would be a good time to post a little bit of his wisdom:


Walter Martin on Being Mad at God . . .

But God said to Jonah, "Do you have a right to be angry about the vine?" "I do," he said. "I am angry enough to die." But the LORD said, "You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?" Jonah 4:9‑11

How do you deal with being mad at God? When He says He’s your rock and fortress, and the whole house burns down clear to the ground, what do you do?

Well, I’d take a good long look at my life and find out if I was playing with matches. That’s the first thing I’d do. If that wasn’t the case, the second thing I would do is go to the Lord and say, “I know Lord, that it is you who, ‘...works all things together for good to them that love you and are called according to your purposes.’ (Romans 8:28) I love you and I am called according to your purposes. Therefore, whatever is taking place in my life right now you will not allow to become so great that I can’t handle it.”

God is faithful. He will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to resist (1 Corinthians 10:13). You have not yet resisted to the shedding of blood as the martyrs have done before. So no matter how bad it is, you’re still here—and that’s a plus—because you can continue rebuilding with God.

As far as being mad at God is concerned, it’s totally fruitless. If you are offending God by your anger, you’re being petulant. Jonah got mad at God—look at the end of the book—and God rebuked him. If you’re angry with God, the best way to deal with that is to get down on your knees and confess the sin. Tell Him you’re sorry for being mad at Him—even though you’re mad at Him still. Ask Him to help you not to be angry, and to forgive and restore you...and He will.

He’s so gracious, kind, patient, and loving to a race of people who are determined to pursue their own goals.