April Devotional Series – Search Me, God, Know My Heart – Week Three
The historical account of Job is one of pain, loss, suffering, and God’s wise control. The long and short of this book of the Bible is this: Job was a stand-up guy. He was faithful to God. He had a family, a farm, and a good life. One day, God and Satan were having a conversation about Job and his faithfulness to God. Satan believes he can turn Job against God and God accepts the challenge. While God is watching, Job loses everything. He loses his farm, his wife, and his sons.
Okay, let’s stop there. So, God allowed Satan to test Job’s faithfulness? Yes, but you see, while God allowed this, He was in complete control the entire time. God knows all things; therefore, He knew Job would remain faithful. So why would God allow Job’s suffering? I don’t know the answer to that for sure, but I believe there is purpose in our pain. I believe that God works all things according to His purpose and for my good.
In the end, Job remained faithful to the Lord and he was rewarded for his faithfulness. The same is true for me and for you. What does this have to do with Step Four?
While working through my searching and fearless moral inventory, I have to remain faithful to God. I know His promises in the Bible tell me the truth of His sovereignty. It is going to be painful at times. I will feel as though I have nothing left, but just when I feel most defeated I am reminded by Job
“Keep silent and I will teach you wisdom.”
It is in the silence I can hear the voice of God. The soft whisper to my heart to keep moving forward. The loving nudge to press on through the pain. The warmth of his gentle hands on mine letting me know He is right there with me. I can close my eyes and listen in the quiet to His guiding instruction to lay all my baggage at His feet.