Read Job 1 – 4
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD (Job 1:21).
The words of Job in this verse are a testimony to the true value of worldly things. This man, in a short period of time, had almost everything of physical value taken from him. Not only that, he had even lost his servants and his own children.
The understanding that Job demonstrated would be tested greatly. He would not only deal with these great losses, but he would face challenges to his faith on every side. He would even be challenged to give up on God.
The true believer in Christ knows that true value is in spiritual things and not physical ones. Job clearly believed this to be a truth. Even after everything that had transpired, he still said "blessed be the name of the LORD".
During times of loss, it is sometimes very difficult to see things this way. This is even true of the believer. Although in difficult situations we should be even more inclined to look towards the throne of God for answers, we know that is not always the case. At times, we are overcome by the trials that are placed before us. We need to understand it is part of our walk with God to go through both good times and bad times. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you (1 Pet. 4:12).
When these difficult days come to our lives, we must learn to place our trust and dependence in God and His Word. The Word of God will always have words of comfort, assurance and advice for those who seek help from the Lord. Times may seem hard. The way may seem impossible. However, the Bible clearly explains the believer can and must overcome. We may be in the midst of the fight, but the ultimate victory is ours. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed (2 Cor. 4:8-9).
We may experience loss in this life. In an economic downturn we might lose out jobs, our retirement savings or even our homes. This is a true hardship. If we look at these through the scope of eternity, it makes these hardships a little easier to live with. A new job, an extension on a mortgage and a change in the market are all within God's power. In the end equation, the final destination of the soul is really what is most important in life.
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matt. 16:26).
Thought for Today:
The Devil continually looks for ways to destroy our faith in God.
Word Studies:
1:1 eschewed, avoided; 1:20 rent, tore; mantle, robe; 2:8 potsherd, piece of broken pottery; 3:16 untimely birth, stillborn; 3:24 roarings, grief, groanings; 4:2 assay, attempts; 4:4 upholden, helped, upheld.
Christ Revealed:
In the conversation between Satan and God Almighty (Job 1:6-12). We can see the meaning of Christ's warning to Peter that Satan wanted to sift him as wheat (Luke 22:31). It is comforting to know that Satan cannot test us beyond the will of God.
Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others (Num. 14:13-19).
Optional Reading: Galatians 4
Memory Verse for the Week: Ecclesiastes 5:4
