Text: Job 1
We often wonder whether it pays to have integrity when ‘good’ people suffer unimaginable tragedies. Evil seems to prosper in our distorted world, causing us to wonder how a loving God could allow the enemy’s plots to be enacted. Job was a faithful and upright man, who shunned evil and feared God. Though it is unclear whether his children were equally noble, Job was a loving parent, offering sacrifices for them in case they had sinned against God. God had allowed him to prosper financially, blessed him with a desire to serve Him, several children and a significant estate. Life was fulfilling. Job was happy.
Yet, he suffered. The jealous enemy of our souls observed Job with wanton malicious thoughts against him, and dared to approach God to accuse him of only serving Him because of the blessings. God boasted about His servant. He may be boasting about you too! This storm you are enduring may be because of your choices, God’s choices for you, or the enemy’s plots. Examine yourself. Is it because of your choices? Repent – make the necessary changes to avoid the sin(s) in the future. If the storm in your life continues to rage and it is not a consequence of your choices, be assured in the fact whether the enemy plotted against you or God allowed it, HE is in control. The enemy could not touch any of Job’s gifts without God’s permission. If God allowed it, trust Him to bring you through it, though the days may be difficult to bear. Like me, you may not readily accept trouble with the same grace, but God will guide you through as many stages of grief as are needed after your loss.
Heartfelt Prayer:
Dear Lord, I feel quite hurt, worried and frightened because of recent loss(es) and experiences. It feels unfair. Nothing in my life prepared me for this pain. Why did You allow it? Will I ever know the answer? Help me to remember that You are in control even when my heart is breaking, my life has been disrupted and the enemy seems to be winning though I have honoured You. Help me through this day Father. Amen.
