Open my eyes that I may glorify your holy name, in the name
of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I pray. Amen.
Will Job's trust in God be able to withstand such adversity?
Satan isn't convinced. Isn't it true that Job only worships God because of his
family, money, and health? It's not just an attack on Job's faith; it's also an
attack on God and his right to be revered and glorified simply because he is
God, rather than for the blessings he provides.
God permits Satan to put Job's faith to the test by taking
everything from him except his life. Instead of cursing God as Satan foretold,
Job embarks on a long, heartbreaking quest to understand what is happening to
him and what this implies about the sovereign and just God he worships. Maybe
you can relate to Job's hardship.
Job's friends are persuaded he is guilty of wrongdoing
because they believe God is both in control and just. Meanwhile, Job is well
aware of his innocence, so what is going on? Job wrestles with his questions in
Chapter 9: the only one who can vindicate him is God. But it is God who allows
him to suffer; '...if it is not, he, then who is it?' he asks (verse 24).
Even if he had a good case, he realizes it would be no match
for God's supreme might and grandeur (verses 5–10). He has no choice but to
'ask for mercy' (verse 15). If only someone could intervene on his behalf
(verse 33)...
We can take solace in the incredible knowing that God has
sent his one and only son to intercede for us in our suffering when we bring
our questions to God. Jesus freely and unjustly suffered and died in our place
so that we could stand before God and be counted righteous. The same God who
allows unjustified pain also lavishes undeserved grace on us and offers us
eternal life in his presence.
Thank you, God, for allowing me to come to you in my time of
need. You are the only one who can truly soothe me. Thank you for the hope I
have in Jesus and for the grace you have shown me. Assist me in remaining
strong in the face of adversity and praising you because you are wonderfully
deserving.