When we think of the book of Job, the word suffering usually comes to mind. And, as we comb through its pages, we get a front row seat to Job’s dire situation through a dialogue that continues throughout most of the story. We hear from Job, his wife, “friends,” a stranger, and finally from God. When God enters the conversation in chapter 38 everything changes – Job repents, prays, and his life is restored. Despite not hearing from God for 35 chapters, one of the most important things to remember is that God was with Job the entire time.
God was with Job when he …
lost everything, endured taunting from his wife, sat in silence and mourned with his friends, wished he had died, complained to God, argued with friends, blamed God, cried out to God,
wallowed in self-pity, rebuked friends, demanded answers from God, was filled with pride and self-righteousness, questioned God, could not see God, reminisced about the glory days, wandered from his intimate friendship with God, repented,
and was restored.
Even though Job didn’t see or feel God’s presence at times during his season of suffering, God was there – just like He is here for us now.
Where do you see God in this coronavirus crisis our world is facing today? During this time of uncertainty, are you leaning into the Lord and His promises that He will never leave you?
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)