The answer isn't what we want

Job 38

[1] Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind:
[18] Have you comprehended the expanse of the earth? Declare, if you
know all this.
[19] "Where is the way to the dwelling of light, and where is the
place of darkness, [20] that you may take it to its territory and
that you may discern the paths to its home? [21] Surely you know,
for you were born then, and the number of your days is great!

Job kept on demanding an explanation for his trials. His friends gave one acceptable answer after another. But for Job none of the answers made sense. And then what happens in the answer from God. Job's questions are left unanswered.

Sometimes we want to have our explanations nailed down with every detail stitched into place. But the answer may not be one that we can comprehend. And, perhaps, even more surprising, Job goes away satisfied. Even more surprisingly, those who gave answers are those for whom Job has to plead.

The one's who cry out in anger and pain are considered justified. While those who give pat and simplistic answers (even if those answers are supported by those in charge, those who are religious, those who are accepted) are left bearing God's wrath.

Job's friends did the right thing as they sat beside him in silence, then they opened their mouths and spoke. I suspect I should sit in silence with people more often and make fewer attempts to provide answers that are not sufficient when one is hurt.