2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Psalms 15 GW; Job 1-3 GW
Job knew God.
When disaster struck in Job’s life, he didn’t blame God. In verse one, we learn what kind of man Job was:
“He was a man of integrity: He was decent, he feared God, and he stayed away from evil.” (Job 1:1 GW)
God blessed Job with seven sons and three daughters, thousands of livestock, and lots of servants. He was the wealthiest man in the Middle East. One day, Satan slithers his way into God’s presence. During their conversation, the devil challenges God. Satan thinks if bad things happen to Job, he’ll curse God. As always, the fallen angel was wrong.
When catastrophe strikes, Job doesn’t curse God. He does the opposite:
Job stood up, tore his robe in grief, and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground and worshiped. He said, “Naked I came from my mother, and naked I will return. The Lord has given, and the Lord has taken away! May the name of the Lord be praised.” (Job 1:20-21 GW)
Praise God in the storm.
Job knew God so intimately, in his worst moment, He praised Him. What Job understood was the fragility of life. Job realized life and things are temporary; only God withstands the test of time. All of us will die, our possessions will fall away, but God is always with us. Whatever we have is a gift from God. Our Creator gives and takes away. We are to cherish what we have while we have it.
Today is a gift; God doesn’t guarantee tomorrow; yesterday is gone. Our journey through this life will include ups and downs, some lows worse than others, some highs better. Keeping God in the center of our life will help us remain constant when the storm winds blow. Just as God eventually restored Job to his prior position, He has a plan for you as well.
Keep the Son in your eyes. Trust Him to help you through the storm. Praise God for His presence that never leaves you.
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Lord, thank You for the example Job sets for us. Forgive us for blaming you when things don’t go our way. Help us keep our eyes focused on You. When faced with a storm, help us praise You in its midst. In all things, the glory is Yours. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
What can you praise God for today?
