“…where then is my hope?” Job 17:15a

Believing his time on earth was drawing to an end, Job questioned if there was any possibility of extending his miserable existence. His friends had accused him of living wickedly; they were the type of friends who called darkness light (v.11).

Job saw death as his only ‘hope’ of relief from his pain and suffering (vv. 13 – 15a). He challenged his friends to discover any other alternative with today’s five understandable words, and pressed his point further by asking three additional questions:

1. “Who can see any hope for me?” (v.15b)

2. “Will it go down to the gates of death?” (v.16a)

3. “Will we descend together into the dust?” (v.16b)

It seems Job was sincerely inviting his friends to provide an encouraging word. Three friends… three questions. One can almost see Job turning to direct a question to each of them. Did they just sit there like a knot on a log and offer no consolation? According to Job’s record, that’s exactly what happened.

This was the moment his friends could have surrounded Job with their presence, affirming words, comforting gestures, and offerings to assist in re-establishing his life. Did that occur? No. Does nothing rise up from within you wishing his friends had actually made a difference in his life?

Social and political correctness are found in every culture, with as many differing perspectives and norms as there are nationalities. In Job’s day, the ‘evidence’ of his life pointed to some sin or wrong-doing in his life. His culture strongly held to the belief that things happen in one’s life for a reason: good things happen to good people; bad things happen to bad people. It was so deeply engrained within their world-view that it actually blinded Job’s friends to Job’s need for comfort and solace. It also blinded Job… he could not make sense of the devastation that had come upon him.

Are we caught in similar social expectations, limiting our own responsiveness to those hurting or despondent? Has our society lost the ability for compassion? Though we see ample examples of those who demonstrate otherwise on social media, is our society degrading into a pile-on toward the down and out, the
hurt, and the fallen?

As children of light, Christians should be quick to come to the need of those who often cannot express their felt-needs. Jesus taught us that heaven is real, and that we should prepare for it by responding to the needy in this way:

“Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger and you invited Me in; I needed clothes and you clothed Me; I was sick and you looked after Me; I was in prison and you came to visit Me.” (Matthew 25:34b – 36)

Jesus summarized this teaching this simple approach to meeting the felt-needs of others:

“…whatever you did for… the least of these… you did for me.” (Mt. 25:40)

There are people all around us asking themselves, “where then is my hope?”. You can answer their question by offering an encouraging word of hope, a visit, and meeting their apparent and immediate needs. You’re the only Jesus some will ever see.

Have a blessed day…

“…my days are cut short…” Job 17:1b

Though Job was confident in his Friend in high places (16:19 – 21), his view of any afterlife had not changed. The entire seventeenth chapter is a resolution by Job to face his own mortality. It actually began with the last verse of the previous chapter:

“Only a few years will pass before I go on the journey of no return. My spirit is broken, my days are cut short, the grave awaits me.” (Job 16:22 – 17:1)

The confidence or hope Job had spoken of earlier was only applicable to his life in the present. Job did not seem to have any belief in an afterlife. The only things that made sense for him were in the ‘here and now’, not in the ‘sweet by and by’. So, through Job’s eyes, he saw only a few years before going on “the journey of no return”.

His description of death is accurate in its finality of time on earth. He merely wanted his final days to be free from the torment of those he thought were his friends. He described being surrounded by hostile mockers (v.2), and asked God to pay any pledge Heaven demanded to lengthen his days (v.3). The pledge was actually
seen as a fine to be paid by one who had legally offended another – just as if one were taken to court and sued for libel. The eternal scope of his words in verse three, however, clearly point to Christ Who paid the price for my sins and the sins of man. Blessed be His name!

As Job was speaking out in this section of his defense, his words mixed prayer into his defensive posture (vv. 3 – 4). Job declared his friends would not triumph over him by their accusations… he continued to stand resolute in affirming his own uprightness before God (v.4). In verse five, Job cautions his friends about
their verbal assaults, warning them that the eyes of their children will fail. This could be seen in at least two ways: first, that Job called his friends out for “outing” him before a hostile world – a practice that, in Job’s day, invited others to come and plunder any remaining spoil of one’s household; and secondly, that neither his enemies or their sons would ever be able to sustain their charges against him (a conclusion easily reached when seen with the previous verse).

Job went on to describe how his name had become a “byword” within his own community, and he fully expected such indecent treatment as being spat upon (v.6). He echoes once again how his eyes had grown dim with grief, adding his entire body was but a shadow of its previous vitality (v.7). Again, Job’s words
prophetically point to the suffering of Christ.

Going on the offensive once again, Job declared that, in time, devout men would reflect upon his life and be appalled at the treatment given him by his accusing friends; these faithful men would learn from Job’s life and be resolute in enduring through similar treatment themselves, growing stronger through the crucible of affliction (vv. 8 – 9). Likewise, being empowered, Job challenged his friends once again with an even more indignant defiance to their charges:

“But come on, all of you, try again! I will not find a wise man among you.” (v.10)

After all, what did Job have to lose by defending his honor? In his mind, his most productive days had passed; his plans for joyous celebrations with grandchildren had been shattered; and so were the desires of his heart (v.11). Job had experienced the tragedy of life: loss and the pain of its devastation – the loss of his possessions, his ability to make a living; his children; and even his closest friends. Indeed, verse eleven is one of the most pitiful verses found in all of scripture.

As one ages, verse eleven may become too real all too soon. What is the antidote for such desperation? We will see Job discovered it (in chapter 19). Have you come to moments of lonely desperation? Does your life seem to be useless? Stay with me in this story of Job and let us discover how God proved to be the God of
second chances.

Have a blessed day…

“…my Advocate is on high…” Job 16:19b

Following his declaration of a witness in heaven Who would speak on his behalf, Job offers the clarification above. This clarifying remark affirmed the second option from yesterday’s vignette:

There is One in Heaven Who acted as an intermediator on behalf of Job – one Who defended Job’s cause and character.

Even though Job was still recovering from the trauma of his losses, he asserted his confidence in God’s lovingkindness and mercy. Although he may not have known Who he was referring to, this passage directly points to Christ – Heaven’s advocate for the sinner, the down and out, and those suffering from the assaults of life.

The apostle John described Jesus’ role within The Trinity as The One Who speaks to The Father in our defense (1 John 2:1b). He’s our heavenly defense attorney! What qualifies Him for such a role? He is recognized in Heaven as The Righteous One (1 John 2:1c), the Lamb Who was slain for the sins of man (read Romans 4:25; 8:3; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Hebrews 4:15; 9:28; and John 8:29). Jesus taught how The Holy Spirit also advocates for those Jesus has redeemed (read John 14:16&26; 15:26; and 16:7).

So, we see by this simple clarification, Job asserted his confidence in God’s righteous grace – not in his own righteousness. Though Job knew of the purity of his own life, his hope was invested in God’s goodness and intervention. In fact, Job felt so confident in God’s love that he described his intercessor as his own personal friend (v.20a). He continued his description of his advocate on high with these words:

“My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man He
pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend.” (vv. 20 – 21)

In other words, Job asserted he had a friend in high places… he had connections. Job’s Friend was seated at the highest place – on the throne of Heaven! Job’s friend was Heaven’s King!

Do you have or have you ever had an influential friend? Someone to whom you could appeal to make a difference for you? Perhaps that difference was supplying an endorsement for a promotion, or providing a connection for a job opportunity. Friends go the extra mile for each other and can always be counted on for support. Jesus is that kind of friend to those who have placed their faith and trust in Him. He will never fail.

Can you say, “My advocate is on high.”? Are you confident in His ability to save? Do you trust Him with your future? Timothy described his confidence in Christ this way:

“For I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day.” (2 Timothy 1:12)

Express your confidence in Christ to keep you and see you through to the day you meet Him in Heaven, and have a blessed day.

“…my witness is in Heaven…” Job 16:19a

When considering what Job meant by this assertion, there are at least two possibilities:

1. The record of his faith – his piety and devotion to God – are known in Heaven (known by God), and act as a positive witness on his behalf.

2. There is One in Heaven Who acts as an intermediator on behalf of Job – one Who defends Job’s cause and character.

If the meaning is found in the first option, then the probability of that record being utilized for some heavenly purpose exists. If that record is to work as some justification for citizenship in heaven, then the evidence of Job’s life would be a trophy of great value on the mantle of faith. If that is what it took to gain entrance into heaven, then there would be no reason to consider the second option.

Do we work at our faith in an effort to show ourselves as worthy for such consideration? If so, what is the value of faith in God when what we are showing is faith in oneself, one’s personal effort to meet some heavenly
standard? Can a mortal actually meet some heavenly standard for entrance into the eternal home of joy?

How will you answer the above questions? What is the basis of your faith? What is your witness in Heaven? Could there be more to the second option than we possibly know? Think on these things and we will consider the second option tomorrow… Lord willing.

Have a blessed day…

“…deep shadows ring my eyes…” Job 16:16b

After describing the passion of his suffering, Job once again declared his position of authentic piety and practice:

“I have sewed sackcloth over my skin and buried my brow in the dust. My face is red with weeping, deep shadows ring my eyes; yet my hands have been free of violence and my prayer is pure. O earth, do not cover my blood; may my cry never be laid to rest!” (vv. 15 – 18)

The proof of his piety could be clearly seen. There were no robes of nobility or hints of the trappings of his past success. Just as everything he owned was gone, so were the evidences of his past wealth. He may have sold his wardrobe to feed his wife and himself. Job’s new garments were akin to one wearing burlap – feedbags converted to clothing.

Job’s face also showed the practice of his faith – displaying humility by bowing low in the ground. So low did Job bow that dust covered the top of his head. The tears from crying had washed the dirt from around his eyes, red from excessive crying which caused deep shadows under the windows to his soul. His mourning was not like those mourners paid to attend funerals for providing the illusion of the dead being well loved and respected.

Without a doubt, Job’s faith was as authentic as his tears, the dirt on his brow, and the sackcloth covering him. His life was free from any accusation, and his prayers were offered-up by a pure heart. Job was determined to be the squeaky wheel, refusing to silence his cries. He would not be laid to rest before first addressing his complaint before God. Job was merely referring to the proof of his faith-practice when he said, “…deep shadows ring my eyes…”. He was not speaking as a braggart, and was only trying to point out the obvious proof of his lament.

He had learned the principle of praying without ceasing. Jesus taught this practice as one who appears before a judge day and night demanding justice… and wearing the judge’s tolerance so thin that he would acquiesce just to be rid of what he considered a nuisance (read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Luke 18:1-8).

Learn from this suffering servant of God: let your posture and practice be one of humility and sincerity. Be real with God… so real that the evidence could not be hidden from your face. Be persistent with your prayers. God values transparency, authenticity, and those with a pure heart who refuse to give up. What will be the proof of your faith practice if you are ever questioned about your faith?

O God, give us a pure heart and the strength to endure.

Have a blessed day…

“…it has become a witness…” Job 16:8a

In the sixteenth chapter of Job is found a most prophetic description of our Lord’s suffering. Job most likely was unaware of how God was breathing The Word through him. When you read verses six through thirteen, reflect on the pain and suffering of The Savior. Here are significant descriptions Job gave of his suffering:

• “…my pain is not relieved…” (v.6a);

• “…You have worn me out…” (v.7a);

• “Men open their mouths to jeer at me…” (v.10a);

• “…they strike my cheek in scorn and unite together against me.” (v.10b-c);

• “God has turned me over to evil men…” (v.11a);

• “He has made me His target…” (v.12c);

• “Without pity, He pierces my kidneys and spills my gall on the ground.” (v.13b-c).

In the way of suffering, Job was a type of Christ: one who suffered, yet without sin. Did Job live a perfect life? No. He was transparent about the sins of his youth, while still asserting that his pattern for living in adulthood was a practice of piety and devotion to God. Job’s life is a heavenly litmus test of trust in God. It has become a witness to the dynamics of human suffering, and how that suffering points to the passion of Christ – slain from the foundation of the world (read Revelation 13:8).

It was Jesus Who became the target of God’s wrath against sin as He hung on the cross, bearing the punishment for the sins of man. Throughout the entire narrative of scripture is the story of redemption. It all points to Christ: from the creation to the victorious return of Christ. It is written through the lives of the faithful; breathed into their inspired writings; and is the center of attention for the hosts of heaven (read 1 Peter 1:12; Revelation 5:1-9).

While this passage may divinely point to Christ, nonetheless Job’s suffering was overwhelming, and by the continued trauma of suffering, he fell back into, yet, another venting of blaming God. His complaints were detailed in the following way:

• even when he stopped expressing his suffering, the pain never stopped (v.6b);

• God had worn him out (v.7a);

• God had devastated his entire household (v.7b);

• God assailed him in anger (v.9a);

• God seized him by the neck and crushed him (v.12b);

• his life had become God’s target (v.12c);

• God’s assaults were ongoing (v.14a).

Again, we see how faith can be overwhelmed, causing one’s understanding of God’s faithfulness to become confused. We know God DID have a target on Job – to use his life as an example before Heaven’s court of a faithful follower – a life completely abandoned to God and His purposes.

If Job’s life became a witness to suffering (though perhaps revealing Job’s human weakness to blame God), what will your life be to the generations to follow. As you give thanks to God for the redemption story, ask that your heart be empowered to become a witness pointing to Christ – whether it be through suffering like Job or through standing against those things which seek to extinguish the light of His truth.

Have a blessed day…

“…miserable comforters are you all!” Job 16:2b

There you have it: Job must have been raised in the South… he said “you all”! All joking aside though, Job’s reply to Eliphaz’s reprimand and explanation revealed no change in the conviction of his own integrity. Job told his friends he had heard many similar descriptions of the evidences of judgment upon wicked people (v.2a). He wondered if their long-winded speeches would never end (v.3a), and asked what mental ailment drove their feeding frenzy of one in distress (v.3b).

Job told them he could possibly be doing the same thing, if the tables were turned (v.4); then declared he would actually do just the opposite of his ‘comforters’ by offering words of encouragement and comfort (v.5). Job declared his heart attitude to be one that cared for others, for he would seek to bring relief, not add to one’s sorrow (v.5b).

What about us? Are we like wild animals that gather around their kill, devouring each other with unrelenting condemnation? How would each of us be described: as a true comforter, bringing relief; or as a miserable comforter?

Do you now of anyone who needs a kind word; a gesture offering hope; or just someone to offer their ministry of presence? You’re the only Jesus some will ever see.

I’ll be out for the next couple of days. Lord willing, I’ll be back with more of Job’s story on Monday, February 3rd.

Have a blessed day ya’ll…

“…the wicked man suffers torment…” Job 15:20a

These five words sum-up Eliphaz’s world view… and theology – one completely absent of God’s grace. He explained this perspective in the verses following his assertion. The suffering of the wicked was even quantified by Eliphaz as being, “All his days” – in other words, it would be safe to conclude that those whose
lives are shown to have prolonged periods of suffering are guilty of some wickedness.

Eliphaz went on to explain how the suffering would manifest itself:

• “Terrifying sounds fill his ears…” (v.21a);

• “…when all seems well, marauders attack…” (v.21b);

• “He despairs of escaping the darkness…” (v.22a);

• “…he is marked for the sword.” (v.22b);

• “He wanders about – food for vultures…” (v.23a);

• “…he knows the day of darkness is at hand.” (v.23b);

• “Distress and anguish fill him with terror…” (v.24a);

• “…he will inherit ruined towns…” (v.28a);

• “…his wealth will not endure…” (v.29a).

Then, Eliphaz concluded his description with these concluding remarks:

“He will not escape the darkness; a flame will wither his shoots, and the breath of God’s mouth will carry him away. Let him not deceive himself by trusting what is worthless, for he will get nothing in return. Before his time, he will be paid in full, and his branches will not flourish. He will be like a vine stripped of its unripe grapes, like an olive tree shedding its blossoms.” (vv. 30 – 33)

While Job trusted in God’s faithfulness and goodness, his friends trusted in a system of rewards and punishment; that those who are suffering are merely receiving their just desserts… reaping what was sown in wickedness. Eliphaz and his friends (and even Job to a point) subscribed to such a theology of works, even
to the point that Eliphaz stated, “Let him not deceive himself by trusting what is worthless…” (v.31a). Evidently, Job’s hope in God’s restoration was considered delusional by his friends. Their God would only reward the faithful and perfect lives of those unstained by sin.

There is a basis for perpetrating this view even in our day. The apostle John’s Revelation to the first century church has language reflecting a similar theology to that of Eliphaz. When addressing the church of Thyatira, he warned of a woman named, Jezebel, stating:

“By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will now that I am He Who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.” (Revelation 2:20b – 23)

See the similarity? A bed of suffering, striking children dead, and repaying one according to his/her deeds. John continued with the address to the seven churches, where Jesus addressed the church of Sardis, stating:

“…you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy.” (Revelation 3:4 – 5)

At first blush, it appears only the lily-white innocents will populate heaven. However, there may have been a phrase we read and often pay little attention to: “unless they repent of her ways” (v.22 in the previously cited
passage). It cannot never be overstated: With God, it’s always about the heart. God is the God of a second chance. He is patient, and He will go to great lengths to bring a change of heart to those trapped in sin. Repentance is the person’s response to God’s working in one’s heart and mind. It is taking an about face from sin, and walking to the embrace of The Father’s arms.

Job was counting on it. He knew his heart was completely abandoned to God’s purposes, and to have accusations of wickedness hurled at him was like one purposely pouring wine on an old heirloom tablecloth. Job’s friends were blinded to God’s provision of grace – covering one’s sin and offering a second chance at holy living.

How about us? Are we trapped in a religious system of works? Are we insistent on trying to win God’s favor for entrance into heaven? The ONLY way to win God’s favor is through faith in Jesus Christ, Who died on a cross for the sins of mankind. Come to Jesus and trust in Him for your second chance at living.

Have a blessed day…

“…I will explain to you…” Job 15:17a

Eliphaz (by the way, his name means, “my God is gold”) seems to have been the oldest of Job’s ‘counselors’. He referred to how the elders were on his side (v.10) and appealed to Job as a father would to his son – from a position of superior experience and knowledge. After his barrage of questions, Eliphaz then advised an exhausted Job with these words:

“Listen to me and I will explain to you; let me tell you what I have seen: what wise men have declared, hiding nothing received from their fathers (to whom alone the land was given when no alien passed among them)…” (vv. 17 – 19)

Of course, only an older, more experienced person could approach Job from such a vantage point – having received the teaching of wise men who held back none of their forefathers’ knowledge. In other words, of the three who came to ‘comfort’ Job, only Eliphaz could impart the combined experience of generations, along with their collective knowledge.

In his first response to Job, Eliphaz focused on the blessings known by a Godly man (read 5:17-26). His second opportunity to reply to Job was weighted with a perspective on the sufferings of the ungodly (vv. 17 – 26). To open the door for a teachable moment, Eliphaz reminded Job that he was about to impart ancient wisdom which was good enough for their forefathers. If Job rejected his words, he would be rejecting the insights passed-down to generations by oral tradition.

So, it seems Eliphaz must have caught himself (for his rhetoric was getting a bit out of hand in the first half of the chapter), and tried to de-escalate the conversation by a more paternal approach. Though most would appreciate a gentler approach, the damage had been done, and the words to come – even when filtered through fatherly advice – were to be just as harsh a judgment toward Job as the first address by Eliphaz.

Tradition can be a valuable teacher to be used as a guide in most life situations. Many, however, elevate tradition to the authority of axioms which can never be broken. This may have been the case in the life of Job’s friends, at the very least, in the life of Eliphaz.

What are we to learn from these few verses? We should use the value of tradition in maintaining family ties, social philanthropy and in our faith practice. However, tradition should never overshadow the relationship one may experience with God, Who seeks out those who would worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23). When an elder presumes to explain an issue to you, listen carefully to the words, and be sensitive to the spirit by which they are spoken. Are they spoken gently, without any hint of condescension? Or are they spoken softly with an air of superiority? Once you have received the explanation, ask God for direction in how you would receive the words.

Have a blessed day…

“…why do your eyes flash…” Job 15:12b (written for 1/23/2020)

A second accusation is placed upon Job by Eliphaz: venting rage against God (v.13). Eliphaz contended that Job’s anger could be seen in his eyes (v.12). If Job’s anger was stirred, it was most likely not caused by any sentiment he had toward God. Given the inflammatory statements from his friends, it could be reasonable
to conclude a response of ‘righteous indignation’ from Job.

Eliphaz asserted Job’s heart had carried him away from God’s right way (while we know that God had actually placed Job in the center of a heavenly contest measuring Job’s righteousness; see chapter 1; also 15:12). Of course, truth was always mixed into the comments by Job’s friends, and this time was no different. Citing the nature of sin in man, Eliphaz declared:

“What is man, that he could be pure, or one born of woman, that he could be righteous? If God places no trust in His holy ones, if even the heavens are not pure in His eyes, how much less man, who is vile and corrupt, who drinks up evil like water!” (vv. 14 – 16)

The apostle Paul wrote that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (read Romans 3:23), and noted there was none righteous (read Romans 3:10-12). Yes, the heart of man is most corrupt – which is why, with God, it has always been about a person’s heart… the heart of their faith, the heart of their passion, the heart of their being. It is God who offers one a new heart – a new and fresh start to living.

Isn’t it interesting how Eliphaz even acknowledged how sin had broken the entire creation? Did you notice it in his statements? He noted, “…if even the heavens are not pure in His eyes…” (v.15b), speaking of earth’s atmosphere. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, it was not just the fall of man, it was the fall of all creation which will one day be made new upon Christ’s return.

Job had already acknowledged the sins of his youth (read 13:26). Yet, his friends had not ventured into the arena of such transparency. Perhaps the argument by his friends was so one-sided that Job’s anger was seen, though it would certainly be indignation for a righteous cause. A cause which makes one’s eyes flash with the fire and passion of a just and devout cause.

It’s been said that the eyes are the windows to the soul (read Matthew 6:22-23). Perhaps, Job’s eyes burned with the fire of defending his honor, knowing all too well how his life had been lived rightly. There is a holy unction that rises to the occasion for fighting against evil, defending God’s righteous precepts, living in holiness, and defending one’s honor when wrongly accused.

Why do your eyes flash? Are they filled with anger or lust, leading to sin (read Luke 11:34; 1 John 2:15-17)? Or do they burn with the holy unction of standing for God’s Kingdom?

Have a blessed day…

“Are God’s consolations not enough…” Job 15:11a

After charging Job with craftiness, Eliphaz continues to barrage Job with a rapid-fire series of six questions:

1. “Are you the first man ever born?” (v.7a)

2. “Were you brought forth before the hills?” (v.7b)

3. “Do you listen in on God’s council?” (v.8a)

4. “Do you limit wisdom to yourself?” (v.8b)

5. “What do you know that we do not know?” (v.9a)

6. “What insights do you have that we do not have?” (v.9b)

Eliphaz had moved from insult to injury. His sarcasm can be easily seen; not only in the quick succession of his interrogation, but also in the ridiculousness of his first three questions. The last three questions were similar to those posed by Job to his friends in an earlier exchange (read 12:1-3; 13:2).

Not satisfied with giving Job impossible questions to answer, Eliphaz then turned to claiming all the elders were on the side of Job’s friends – men even older than Job’s father (v.10). Unlike today, the elders in Job’s lifetime were revered and heard with respect. I’ve always wondered where Job’s father was during all this. Surely, he was aware of the loss of his grandchildren and the miserable plight of his son. Why did he not come to his son’s defense? I guess we will never know this side of heaven.

When one begins to define who is on who’s side, the argument has moved far from civil discourse and into a bullying position. We must remember that Job had certainly been one of the most influential and powerful members of his community, based upon his previous wealth. So, he was surely a force to be reckoned with, and his friends must have agreed to confront Job with as much fire-power as possible; basically, kicking him while he was down.

Then Eliphaz moved into manipulating Job’s conscience, saying:

“Are God’s consolations not enough for you, words spoken gently to you?” (v.11)

Job’s friends considered themselves to be doing The Lord’s work, attesting their words to have been spoken gently. Often words spoken quietly can be the most bruising, especially when coming from those one may consider allies or friends. It is a most difficult thing to sit and be verbally attacked through mouths which had been known to be filled with laughter, encouragement and kindness… and the attack can be executed quite calmly by those who think quite highly of themselves and their positions.

How is this speaking to us today? In my experience, Christians can be the kindest and most benevolent people on earth. Though I’ve also experienced those within a church who have acted from self-serving positions of power, and like Job’s friends, brought hurt to those in their wake. Which would God find you to be?

Let us pray to be shaped into the pattern of God’s Son, Who, though He knew no sin, was mocked, scourged, beaten and crucified for the sins of man.

Have a blessed day…

“Your own mouth condemns you…” Job 15:6a

Eliphaz was quick to respond to Job’s second reply with eleven rapid-fire questions. Each of them was a challenge to Job’s wisdom and integrity. Today we look at the first two queries:

1. “Would a wise man answer with empty notions or fill his belly with the hot east wind?” (v.2)

2. “Would he argue with useless words, with speeches that have no value?” (v.3)

With those words, Job’s sunny-day friend was turning up the heat, calling Job’s diatribe “empty notions”, “hot wind”, and “useless words… with… no value”. The tactic was the same: condescension, meant to put someone in his/her place. Those who talk down to others do so to exalt themselves.

Then, Eliphaz heightened the vitriol with an outright accusation of craftiness when he said:

“But you even undermine piety and hinder devotion to God. Your sin prompts your mouth; you adopt the tongue of the crafty. Your own mouth condemns you, not mine; your own lips testify against you.” (vv. 4 – 6)

This backhanded comment was really a compliment to Job’s superior eloquence and rationale. Because Job’s friends had no real reply to his defensive statements (review chapters 12-14), their only recourse was to continue from a position superiority. Civil discourse had officially left the room. When an argument diminishes to the point of name-calling and belittling one’s adversary, those involved have reached a point of no return.

Have you ever been falsely accused? Spoken down to? Insulted? These were all done by Job’s friends. Job’s life pointed to Christ, Who was also betrayed and abandoned by His friends; mocked and scorned by His own people.

So, we see that Eliphaz began his second address to Job to antagonize him further. This is obviously a ‘knee-jerk’ response to Job’s strong stance of his own innocence and devout living. After Job asserted his equality to his friends, they were then challenged to defend their bullying and condescension.

What does this teach us today? Our best response to accusations is best kept to reasonable replies given to de-escalate tensions, while defending one’s own integrity. The best road to take is the high road.

Have a blessed day…

“He… mourns only for himself.” Job 14:22

Believe it or not, Job went right back to the description of his despair:

“But as a mountain erodes and crumbles and as a rock is moved from its place, as water wears away stones and torrents wash away the soil, so You destroy man’s hope. You over power him once for all, and he is gone; You change his countenance and send him away. If his sons are honored, he does not know it; if they are brought low, he does not see it. He feels but the pain of his own body and mourns only for himself.” (vv. 18 – 22)

Reverting back to his faulty view of God’s stance toward him, Job transparently expressed how those in real desperation only feel the pain of their own experience – and can only mourn for themselves once they have lost hope. But didn’t Job just declare his hope for God’s renewal? Yes, and that is the insanity of emotional trauma – one may be at life’s lowest point one moment, and become empowered enough to rally his/her wits for joining the living once again.

Life has a way to erode one’s hopes… slowly dripping upon the soil of youthful dreams, where it works to loosen that which is supporting those dreams. Then, one sudden calamity acts like a torrent which sends those dreams cascading down into an abyss of hopelessness. The only antidote for that despair is the power which comes from trusting God.

Unfortunately, many get angry with God, instead of drawing nearer to Him. That’s the reason so many depressed people act out in desperation through suicide – the feel completely alone in their grief, as THEY MOURN ONLY FOR THEMSELVES. Reader, the only real hope any of us could ever possess is through trusting God with the details and outcome of our lives. He is the Glory and The Lifter of our heads (Psalm 3:3); our ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1); and The One Who stands ready to save (1 Peter 1:5).

The apostle Peter described it this way:

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, Who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”   (1 Peter 5:10)

Have a blessed day…

“My offenses will be sealed…” Job 14:17a

Any sins from Job’s youth would be powerless against God’s absolution toward Job. What a magnificent personal discovery! What relief! What peace! While waiting for his personal renewal, Job had a revelation: renewal comes through the cleansing power of God! The sins of his youth, which must have plagued his memory for some time, would be muted after being sealed up in a bag – giving the opportunity for personal renewal… a new way of thinking, leading to a new pattern of living.

God was telling Job that He would be the trash collector and rid him from the stench of past sins. What God breathed into Job was the idea of a trash bag being sealed, taken to a dump, and covered over. Here’s the verse:

“My offenses will be sealed up in a bag; You will cover over my sin.” (v.17)

Even way back then, it was always about the heart. God will soften hearts of stone; melt ice-cold hearts; and reshape one’s heart (one’s thinking) to beat for His Word – to be passionate about seeking to live rightly. He did it for Job; He’s doing it for me; and surely He is able to do it for you!

Have a blessed day…

“…You will count my steps…” Job 14:16

Job had come full circle in grief. He was now ready to wait on God to call him and begin the process of renewal for his life (vv. 14b – 15a). As a husband longs for his wife, so God longs for those made in His image (v.15b). And when the day would come for God to come calling, Job would have a ready answer.

O, the joy of hope in God’s rescue! Job was now confident in the day of personal redemption – a day when God would count his steps back to the light, never to be bullied by the sins of his youth again (v.16; also see 13:20b). Herein is a picture of the parable Jesus taught of the prodigal son who ran into the arms of his father. I’m sure the father must have counted every leaping bound his son made on the path headed to his arms (Luke 15:11-32). Job had become lost in the horror of his losses and in the grief of his trauma, and was now looking to the day of his renewal, and being found in his Father’s arms.

There are some reading this who are weighed down by their past… and they cannot seem to stop replaying the recording. Others may be overwhelmed by sorrow, or anger, or resentment, or any number of besetting emotions. Look to Job’s life and allow it to give you hope for the day you will run back into the Father’s arms. He’ll be counting the steps you make back into the fulness of His love, offering a new start for you and the hope for better days ahead.

Have a very blessed day…

“At least there is hope…” Job 14:7a

Sounds great, doesn’t it? We all want hope for the future. In this case, however, Job was describing the advantage a tree may have over a human: namely, the ability to sprout again after being cut down (read vv. 7 – 10). Job saw death as a permanent condition, with no afterlife. Here’s how he described it:

“As water disappears from the sea or a riverbed becomes parched and dry, so man lies down and does not rise; till the heavens are no more, men will not awake or be roused from their sleep.” (vv. 11 – 12)

Job prayed a wish to God: that he would be like a tree that had been cut down, able to sprout again to life:

“If only You would hide me in the grave and conceal me till Your anger has passed! If only You would set me a time and then remember me!” (v.13)

Do you see what I see in this verse? Job was describing EXACTLY what happened at Jesus’ death. Jesus died on the cross for the sins of man, placed in a borrowed tomb, and after a set time of three days, raised to life. God was breathing into an unknowing Job the very foundation of Christianity! And Job didn’t even believe in an afterlife!

Though Job may not have had a solid grasp of the afterlife, he DID have a personal hope in God’s restoration of his life to become full and abundant once again:

“If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my hard service I will wait for my renewal to come. You will call and I will answer You; You will long for the creature Your hands have made.”

God somehow revealed to Job the calling card of access to God in prayer: acknowledging oneself to be the work of God’s hands and valuable in God’s eyes. God DOES long for fellowship with those made in His own image. He cares for you so much!

Are you, like Job, listening for God’s calling? Are you ready to answer Him to experience the renewal He will bring to your heart, mind and life? If so, AT LEAST THERE IS HOPE for every Believer to experience renewal and refreshing! We also, on this side of the cross, have a blessed hope that God has set the time for our homecoming and resurrection. Blessed be His name!

Have a blessed day…

“Man… is of few days…” Job 14:1a

Job’s faulty understanding of his life situation can be clearly seen in his plea before God. However, he did begin with a solid premise: the brevity of life; and that life is full of trouble. He compared the length of one’s life to a flower that springs up and withers away. Job also described the brevity of life to be like a shadow that cannot endure – for a shadow can be lost by clouds, the end of a day, or a larger shadow overcoming it (vv. 1 – 2).

Having stated his premise, Job began his argument with a few questions for God:

·       “Do You fix Your eyes on such a one?” (v.3a)

·       “Will You bring him before You for judgment?” (v.3b)

·       “Who can bring what is pure from the impure?” (v.4a)

This line of questioning was really out of line for Job. He was in way over his head because Job’s assumptions about God were all wrong. He was just as wrong about God as his friends were about him. Job knew all too well that God’s eyes are fixed on all who call upon His name. He also knew that everyone will be brought
before God to be judged.

Change is never easy. Paul described the change in a sinner’s life to be a type of death: dying to sin and living to Christ (Romans 6:11). There is only one Who can bring what is pure from the impure, namely – The Lord God Almighty. Job declared otherwise (v.4b). Job may have been unaware of God’s transforming power to change impure hearts to pure ones. Maybe he never saw proof of such. He may have grown up in a faith-filled family, and like many, never went through a change of heart – for his heart may have been raised as pure and undefiled (though we know all have sinned and come short of God’s glory; read Romans 3:23).

As Christians, although we believe in the power of transformation, we often act just like Job – believing people are really incapable of change. In doing so, we call God a liar (read 1 John 5:10). The proof is in the pudding, and that pudding in found in the lives of those whose hearts have been radically changed by the redeeming power of Jesus Christ. All Believers are people in transition through transformation – it is a lifelong process. We are being changed from one bent towards sin to one who resists temptation and follows Christ.

It is a process that is more successful when one has a right view of God. Are you, like Job, assuming the worst about how God sees you? Or are you sure of this one thing, that He Who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it (read Philippians 1:6)? The older I get, the more aware I am of just how sinful I have been and the work God still has to accomplish in me. I am confident, however, in His ability to make all things new… including my heart.

Have a blessed day…

“…the sins of my youth.” Job 13:26b

There were two requests Job made to God before presenting his plea of innocence (v.20):

-   To withdraw His hand (of chastisement; v.21a);

-  To bring an end to his night terrors (v.21b).

Still clueless of the test he had been subjected to, Job considered all his severe losses as God’s hand of discipline. There are often times one may ask God to withdraw His hand when, instead, asking for God’s hand to secure and establish one’s life would be a better prayer. Job’s night terrors were a fabric of his own trauma, and he could end them through the exercise of greater faith in God’s goodness.

Job invited God to summon him before Heaven’s court (v.22) and asked Heaven’s King to reveal Job’s sin to him (v.23). Considering what Job had experienced, he was being completely transparent with God – and completely reckless in his abandon to proving his innocence. There are some prayers one might pray with the same abandon, not aware of the answer’s high cost, and usually unprepared for the question’s answer. Here are a few examples: change me; break me (my will or pattern of living); mold me (remake me); and use me. These short prayers have significant expectations and results. Asking for one’s sins to be exposed is nothing less.

With similar recklessness, Job directed three additional questions to God:

-       “Why do You hide Your face and consider me Your enemy?” (v.24)

-       “Will You torment a windblown leaf?” (v.25a)

-       “Will You chase after dry chaff?” (v.25b)

Again, Job’s perspective assumes the worst about God. He simply doesn’t know that God was using Job’s life as an example before all Heaven of what a righteous life looks like (review chapter 1). Job’s next statement to God reveals just how severe he considered God to be:

“For You write down bitter things against me and make me inherit the sins of my youth. You fasten my feet in shackles; You keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet.” (vv. 26 – 27)

While it is true God knows everything about us, He is not one to revisit them once His grace has covered them. There are days when I replay the sins of my youth and ask for God’s mercies for sins which I have already been forgiven. Perhaps that’s what Job was speaking of as he tried to make sense of the catastrophes
which had come his way. When it comes to sin, what we cover-up, God uncovers; what we uncover before God, He will cover with His grace. Often the shackles we experience have been applied by our own doing – replaying the past.

God does keep close watch on each of us, and I found it quite significant how Job knew one’s feet had ‘marks’ on them which is unique to each person – just like our fingerprints! This should encourage every faith-walker to realize how valued every soul is to God! You are so prized by God! Christ gave His life on the cross for you, that your spirit would reside with Him in Heaven. God wants to have you close to Him. Draw close to Him in the ‘here and now’ so that you will be confident in drawing close to Him in the ‘then and there’ of Heaven.

Do you, like Job, ever see God from a faulty point of view. Do you assume the worst about God? Do you also fear that God would resurrect THE SINS OF YOUR YOUTH? Perhaps there is more to your life situation than you could possibly know. Is it possible that you have been exalted to be heaven’s example of righteousness? Trust God to get you through the test.

Have a blessed day…

“…I know I will be vindicated.” Job 13:18b

Job was on the offensive, with a “full-court-press”, insisting to present his ‘case’ before God. After commanding his friends to keep silent and let him speak, he resolved to “let come what may”. Job was fully abandoned to God’s grace and goodness. He articulated it this way:

“Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands? Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him.” (vv. 14 – 15)

With those words, Job reflected the heart of Christ’s prayer on the Mount of Olives:

“Father, if You are willing take this cup from me, yet not my will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

Though Jesus Himself was perfectly innocent, He, too, placed Himself in great jeopardy… enduring the pain and suffering of a cross to pay for the sins of mankind. Job’s situation was similar in that, like Jesus, he was innocent and his life was being used for a heavenly purpose.

With renewed confidence, Job declared he would defend himself before God and it would turn out for his deliverance. He reasoned no godless man would dare approach God on his own defense. (vv. 15 – 16) So, Job beckoned his friends to listen carefully to him, taking in every word. (v.17) Job once again declared his confidence in his vindication. Unfortunately, Job’s confidence was placed in his own ability, stating:

“Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated. Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die.” (vv. 18 - 19)

The safest place for anyone to be in is in the hands of our loving, merciful God. The weakest position to argue one’s case before God is from one’s own ability instead of relying on God’s grace and mercy. Perhaps Job’s ‘case’ entirely depended upon God’s mercy. In any case, at this point in the story, Job is sure of two things: that God would vindicate him; and that the calamities he suffered were not a result of sin.

How will Job approach God’s throne? On his own merit, or by accessing favor with God completely by God’s mercy. How do you plan to appear before God? Do you know if you will be fully vindicated when you do? One thing Job DID know is it’s important what one believes, and it’s also important how one behaves. Job knew
his life was a testimony of holy living – even if he was in the midst of a heavenly test.

I know I will be vindicated before God, though only by the blood of Christ shed for my sins on the cross. Are you relying on your own abilities, your own ‘righteousness’, to get you into heaven? Don’t hedge your bets on your eternal security through your efforts. Trust in the work God accomplished on the cross through His Son.

God have mercy on us all.

Have a blessed day…

“He would surely rebuke you…” Job 13:10a

Once Job detailed his own observations of God’s character traits (review chapter 12; v.1), he confronted his would-be friends by asserting his equality to them (v.2), while restating his desire to voice his ‘case’ to God, for relief from his suffering (v.3). Job accused them of condemning him without evidence by smearing lies about him (v.4a). He went on to say they were “worthless physicians” (remember, they came with the intentions of offering solace and comfort after hearing of the terrible sequence of events which occurred; see chapter 1; v.4b).

The tone of Job’s dialogue became more argumentative and he advised them the best wisdom they could exercise at that moment was silence (v.5). He implored them to listen to his side of the story (v.6), and then asked six pointed questions to them:

1. “Will you speak wickedly on God’s behalf?” (v.7a)

   One may often seek to ‘speak for God’ while enflamed with one of humanity’s severest weaknesses: indignation. Job’s friends may have become indignant after the first exchange of words between Job and Eliphaz (see chapters 3-7). Indeed, if Job’s friends had remained silent, allowing him to vent his sorrow, while seeking to understand his loss, the dialogue between Job and his friends may have been much different

2. “Will you speak deceitfully for Him?” (v.7b)

   In the far east there is a practice known as justified falsehood. It ‘allows’ one to be deceitful to obtain justice. Our own law enforcement practice similar tactics when posing as someone else or a legitimate business in an effort to apprehend criminals.

3. “Will you show Him partiality?” (v.8a)

   In other words, Job was asking how impartial his friends could really be, given their world view of ‘just deserts’ for those who secretly do wrong (which assumes guilt, instead of innocence).

4. “Will you argue the case for God?” (v.8b)

   A bold inquiry by Job, as why would God need anyone to argue for Him? He is quite able to present His charges against someone and defend His own righteous standard.

5. “Would it turn out well if He examined you?” (v.9a)

   his question would pierce right to the heart of Job’s friends, and reflects Christ’s teaching when He gave permission for the mob to stone a woman if each one casting a stone was without sin (read John 8:3-7).

6. “Could you deceive Him as you might deceive men?” (v.9b)

   Without holding back any reservation of political correctness, Job confronted his friends with a question which shows just how equal we all stand before almighty God, for there is nothing hidden from Him (read Deuteronomy 29:29; Daniel 2:22; Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 8:17, 12:2-3).

Job then turned the tables on his friends by asserting how God would rebuke them if they even tried to continue their efforts to represent God in this matter (v.10a). He warned them that if they secretly showed partiality, God’s glory would terrify them (vv. 10b – 11). Job’s zeal may have led him to push the point further, when he stated:

“Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay.” (v.12)

Job was calling a spade a spade. He was dealing in the realm of truth, having lived a transparent life… his suffering statements being no less transparent. Again, this passage offers the reader a reminder to offer comfort to those hurting… it is not a moment to wax on about the meaning of life or the possible cosmic purpose behind the trouble. The ministry of presence is the strongest message of love one may have to give during moments of great distress. If we do not learn from this story, we only set ourselves up to repeat history… replaying the story of Job in our own lives.

Have a blessed day…