2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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A GODLY LIFE
SATURDAY, JUNE 4
Job 29:12-25
2 Corinthians 4:13-18
Live with eternity’s values in view.
A GODLY LIFE
The Scriptures teach that true Christians will reflect their faith by their lives. Being considerate of those in difficult situations is an example of godly love. From the time of the giving of the law throughout the Scriptures, we are charged with being concerned with orphans, widows and others in trouble (Exod 22:22; James 1:27).
Job thought back on his former life when he saw himself blessed by God. He testified that he had obeyed God in taking care of orphans, widows and others in need. He was concerned about justice in the land and protected the poor from those who would have taken advantage of them (Job 29:12-17).
The Scriptures do not teach a “social gospel,” i.e. a religion of good works. Yet, God’s Word clearly teaches that those who are His children should care about others and Job had done this throughout his life. He showed his faith by his works and we should do the same (James 2:18).
Due to his obedience, Job believed that he would live and die in the wealth and blessing God had given him. He assumed that his kind and gentle manner would preserve the respect and admiration of his friends. He never expected that God would allow calamity of any kind to befall him and certainly not the unbelievable devastation that had come upon him (Job 29:18-25).
In all of this, we see Job’s misunderstanding of his part in God’s eternal purpose. He did not understand that his physical blessings, while they were indeed from God, were not as important as the eternal reward his suffering would gain.
We too, like Job, may be called upon to suffer for a while to accomplish God’s eternal purpose. At such times, may we be encouraged by remembering that our difficulties will last just for a moment, but our blessing will be eternal (2 Cor 4:17).
THOUGHT: Why did Job not understand his problems?
PRAYER: Father, may I truly understand that to suffer knowing Christ is better than a life of ease without Him.