Hello Rusty,
This happens if the checkbox 'Initial Update' on RefreshPage panel is unchecked while defining the iGrid.
If we check the InitialUpdate checkbox, then the query data gets updated when the grid renders first time itself. Else it refreshes after the set duration in the Refresh Rate box, given that you have checked AutomaticallyRefresh checkbox.
If you have not set InitialUpdate to true and also have not set AutomaticallyRefresh to true, then you will have to manually click on 'Refresh' button on the grid explicitly.
This Refresh button will not appear at all if you have set ShowTimeControl checkbox to false!!
I suggest that you check the InitialUpdate check so that atleast the data will render in the grid.
Also, like what Jeremy has suggested, please check for error messages in the java console that opens when the grid loads if above stated checks do not help.
Thanks,
Rutika