January 19th

Job 1:1-4:21 

We began the account of Job. We are familiar with his story, or at least with the summary of his life, the fact that he lost everything and was allowed by God to suffer unthinkable horrors, only to be reinstated in full after a time.

It is a typical error of ours, when we are so familiar with a character or a book, to gloss over the deeper truths hidden beneath its words. I am challenged not to be guilty of that. I want to stay focused on what God can teach us about Himself.

One of the realities in this story, which is taken for granted right from the start, is that we have an enemy who does nothing but “roam about the earth and observe everything that’s going on” (Job 1:7; 2:2). Peter tells us in the New Testament that he “prowls about, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8), as is the case with Job. It is so easy sometimes, since we cannot see Satan, to forget that he exists (which is what he would like for us to do) and to be ignorant of his destructive mission in our lives.

Another reality of this story is that we have Someone on our side, a loving God who holds us in His hand and protects us with His power (1:10). However, the question of the day came when Job responded to his wife’s admonition to “Curse God and die.” He asked, “Shall we accept good from God and not accept adversity?”

Here is a perspective on life that few people have, the attitude and ability to praise God come what may. Most people are quick to abandon the Lord when life gets hard. Job is a tremendous example of faithfulness.

Daily Reflection

What is your typical response to God when life gets difficult?

Have you ever heard of fair-weather fans, those people who only demonstrate support for their team when things are going well but who abandon their team once they start losing? Sadly, many people respond to the Lord in the same way. Are you a fair-weather fan or do you demonstrate the faithfulness of Job? Are you more prone to complain to God or praise Him?

 “The Lord gives and the Lord takes away,” says Job. “Blessed be the name of the Lord.” We like it when the Lord gives, but what about when He takes away? Do you trust Him enough to bless His name then?

In the time that it takes to read Job, you will experience unpleasant situations. How will you respond?

BiAY.org | Day 19 — 346 Days to Go