Suggested Bible Reading: Job 40-41
Devotional Thought:
“Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.” (vs. 2) God asked Job a very probing question. Have you ever questioned God’s goodness, God’s wisdom, or God’s love? Asking God “why” has more to do with our attitude than with the question. Much like a child questioning his parents, we often show in our attitude disagreement rather than a desire to understand. When our desire is to grow in our understanding of, the wisdom in, or the profit from a God that is much bigger and wiser than we, then the question “why” is appropriate. When the reason for the question is to make God defend his decision, justify his wisdom, or to get approval for any circumstance, then our attitude is wrong and so is the question. Job’s response is appropriate and proper. “Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.” (vs. 4-5) Job said, “I need to stop talking because I am wrong.” It is wisdom for all of us to learn when we should close our mouths and stop talking, especially when we are questioning God. All of us have faced situations that we did not understand and maybe we still don’t understand; however, God is always right because He is perfectly righteous, holy, and sovereign. We are not right because we are naturally selfish, finite in our knowledge, and limited in our perspectives. God makes a case against anyone who thinks they know more than God knows. Have you ever thought, “God should have stopped the airplanes from flying into the world trade centers.” “God should not have allowed the judges to legalize homosexual marriage.” Whenever we question an infinite, all-knowing, and all-loving God, we are wrong and God is still right. “Wiltthou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous? Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him? Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty. Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one that is proud, and abase him.” (vs. 8-11) We need to take God’s advise and reject pride and arrogance in our lives and in our society. God knows best and we can trust Him in every and any situation; therefore, we must humble ourselves and submit ourselves to the word of God and fulfill the will of God.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me never doubt you. I am never going to understand everything because I am a finite human. Please help me to have a right view of you.
• Lord, please help me to live by faith, knowing you are always right and in perfect control.
• Lord, thank you for the peace of God that passeth all understanding that keeps my heart stayed upon you.