Today we read Job’s final defense of his life, and it truly is compelling.
When you read through all the good deeds that Job has done in his life, it’s hard to imagine why God would punish him, or allow him to be persecuted in this way. But I have a quick thought today…
What if what is happening to Job is a reflection of what will happen to Christ when He comes? There is a parallel here: The person who has done nothing wrong, always done what is right….loses everything and is mocked and tortured by the people that should welcome him. Oh, and don’t forget that in the end of the story this person is restored, and that he must pray for the very people who persecuted him so they can be forgiven. That’s all from Job’s story…but it also foreshadow’s Christ.
What if the Lord looked on Job and said “Job, you have done everything I have ever wanted a human to do. You are kind and loving and truly holy. I am going to use you to show the entire world what will happen when I myself come down to earth to rescue the human race.” I’m willing to bet Job would not have complained one bit. He would be willing to endure whatever God sent his way, as long as he knew why he had to endure it.
But God never has that conversation with him. Here’s the lesson to remember: God always has a purpose, and He never wastes our suffering in His name, but He doesn’t always tell us what He is doing.
The next time events seem to swirl out of control in your life, remember the lesson and continue to trust God to do what is right, even if it seems to be completely unfair to you at the moment. Trust that God doesn’t make mistakes, and that He loves you perfectly.
Faithfully,
PR