Difficulties abound in life, but take heart! (Part 1)
It is shocking and amazing, how life could turn so difficult at one time or the other. Suffering, having become an inherent part of human life has led many to ask the question "why?" many times. Living in a fallen world lopsided by sin and the evil one, hardships befall humanity. The Lord Jesus prompted us about these realities, with more than a fringe of hope when He said, "These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world". (John 16:33)
The life of a man who will not cry out (i.e. the meaning of Job), has a lot to teach us in our times of difficulties too. A man whose earlier and latter blessings in life had sandwiched such indescribable throes of pain and suffering. Job had lost his health, wealth, children, etc. not to mention his reputation, friends' accusations, public scrutiny, mockery, and the test of his faith in the Living God. (Job 1&2)
Here are some lessons we can garner from the book of Job.
1. We can develop a good relationship with God, even during turbulent times in life. It is alright to ask questions during hard times, yes. And God can handle that. Job expressed his anger, frustrations, fears and quandaries to God. Unfortunately, some reject God and fail to cast their burdens on the Lord who has promised to take care of all their needs. (1Pet. 5:7) And in the midst of it all, God is watching over us and will never leave nor forsake any (Heb. 13:5). Tribulation produces a cascade of virtues including perseverance, proven character and hope (Rom. 5:3,4). And through it all, Job got drawn to God having experienced His awesomeness, mercy and goodness and so can we.
2. We learn that God is still God. God knew what Job was going through and even allowed it - He did not stand in the way. 'Why didn't God stop it?' This is legitimate to ask. The greater end was fully known by God and He always knows the best for us as well. Thus, we are encouraged to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10) who is with us and for us. (Rom. 8:32)
3. Our blessings must never be taken for granted. Job knew what he had been blessed with and acknowledged that it was from the Lord. The blessing of having a wife, sons and daughters, respect and fame, servants and employees, great wealth, friends, other precious relationships, etc. were not taken for granted. And in a temporary reminiscing posture, Job recounted his losses and then exclaimed 'The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away.' (Job 1:21a)
Similarly, we may encounter some losses in life that may be from the Lord, by ourselves, by others or from the evil one. We must therefore enjoy and cherish the countless blessings that have come our way from the Lord (James 1:17) our families, spouses, siblings, children, good health, our professions, our influences, relationships, the great tastes and natural sceneries, peace with others, safe travels etc.
By reflecting on the principles in the Book of Job, we can rightly gird ourselves in difficult times in life as well as the 'good' days. The remaining principles will be discussed in the subsequent devotional. Take heart and trust in God.