Suggested Bible Reading: Job 38-39
Devotional Thought:
In chapter 38, God takes Job on a tour of creation and asks a series of questions. Job was sure that his speeches had been filled with wisdom and knowledge, but God’s first question put an end to that delusion: “Who is this that darkens My counsel with words without knowledge?” (vs. 2) God could not fathom Job using his ignorance to deny God’s sovereignty. God never questions the sincerity or integrity of Job, but He does question the inability of Job to articulate the ways of God in the world. Job thought he knew about God, but he didn’t realize how much he didn’t know about God. Knowledge of our own ignorance is the first step towards demonstrating true wisdom. God wanted Job to trust Him through the trial, not merely endure the trial. There is a distinct difference between someone gutting out a trial, and someone who is growing in their faith through the trial. Trusting God when nothing is making sense takes faith. Believing God and claiming His promises when things are going good does not take faith; therefore, faith is only matured when we are faced with things that do not make sense. The source of our faith is God. When I cannot make sense of something, I must be reminded that things make perfect sense to God. When I cannot figure something out, I must remember that God has it all figured out. When I am confused about life, I must remember that God makes no mistakes. There must be recognition of God ‘s power, perception, and presence. God takes Job on a tour of His power in creating the world. He reminds Job of His wisdom to know how to create the world. God concludes by announcing His presence. Everything changes when we remember that God is fully in control and able to bring His purpose and plan together for good.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me to never doubt you as trial come and go in order to strengthen my faith.
• Lord, thank you for your power, wisdom, and understanding. I am so thankful you work all things together for good.