WISDOM FROM JOB – FAMILY AND FAITH

There are times in our lives, where even the closest people we have, may speak hurtfully against us, and about all that we believe and stand for. Such incidents, though rare, can be revealing in many ways. It reveals the fact that they may not have understood us, and all that we stand for.

Job suffered immensely. He lost everything he had ever had. Job’s response reveals his heart and his faith – “21 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

As if to add insult to injury, he is struck with boils and sores – “7 So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.” – Job 2:7. 

What a sad state to be in. He is rendered helpless and is completely abandoned. Job’s wife, who was witnessing all that was happening, responds – “9…”Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die.” – Job 2:9. She understood what was happening quite well, but sadly, had arrived at a wrong conclusion. It would be interesting to know what may have gone through Job’s heart, hearing these words from his better half.

Job’s response reveals not only his love for his wife, but much more than that, his deep commitment to God, and his unwavering faith in God and His goodness. This is precisely why Job’s wife said – “Dost thou still retain thine integrity?”

Job is no small man, with even smaller heart, with a big ego. He knows himself very well. Much more, he knows his God all too well. Therefore he says – “10…Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.” – Job 2:10 

There will be times, when the closest people around us can cut us, with their conclusions, about us. They may abandon us too, because of what we believe and stand for. Let us not give up, and abandon the way of the LORD, and walk contrary to our principles, values and ethics.

The season of suffering is meant only for a certain time. It will pass away for sure. However, let us stand fast and hold on to the LORD, who needs no other evidence to prove to us, His love, mercy and grace. May the LORD help us.