Job 20-21; Galatians 2
It can be so hard to stand firm in the midst of hardship and loss. We may see people around us prospering and not having to worry about things like money, health, relationships, etc. and wonder why they get the "special treatment" from God. The truth is no one has everything together. People just cover things in different ways. Some put on their Sunday best all the time and don't allow others to know the secrets in their lives that are causing the stress. Others feel like they are falling apart all the time (I sure can relate) and can't seem to cover it up like others.
As Zophar talks to Job and tries to "encourage" him, I guess... we do see the truth that God doesn't let anyone get away with their crime. In Job's case, Zophar - like all of Job's other friends, is wrong, but he speaks truth about Who God is. We can feel burned by people at times and wonder why they are able to get away with it, but the truth is, they won't. Just because on earth here they may never get "caught" doesn't mean that God won't pour out justice on them. Remember this when you think you can get away with something too. Always have a pure heart towards others and you'll have a pure heart towards God. A firm heart towards God when things seem unfair is important.
Job struggles with Zophar's response against him, and replies with an attitude of humility towards God, claiming that no one has the right to judge God and Who He is. Job knows that God has a plan here and that God is in control, even though right now it doesn't feel that way. In the midst of our hardships, we can choose this attitude as well. God IS in control and God DOES have a plan. His way is perfect! Having a firm heart towards God when everything falls apart is important.
Today, in Galatians we read about Paul's experience with standing firm, as he tells about refusing any other truth or foundation other than the Gospel. Paul wasn't intimidated by these individuals who were labeled "great leaders" in the community. He was only moved by what God wanted of him. Even the law cannot bind Paul, as that can even cause us to forget the true meaning in Who God is. Keeping up with God and your relationship with Him is more important. Legalism is not keeping a relationship - it is keeping a religion. Having a firm heart when it comes to God and HIS essentials is important.
We need to have soft hearts when it comes to being humble and relying on God, but stand firm when it comes to hardships, legalism and when things feel unfair. His plan is perfect and He will make a way that is beyond comprehension. Stand firm and stand tall in Him.
No comments:
Post a Comment