journey onWord with us

Difficulties in life come in various shapes and sizes. I may not easily understand your struggles, and you probably can’t relate to mine. When we are confronted with global chaos (Haiti) or particularly personal pain, a wide range of emotions can overwhelm our spirits. Thoughts such as “does God care?” tend to invade our minds, even if the words never exit our lips. God’s Word can give us confidence of His control, and our faith will help us through those seasons of difficulty. Recently, a few verses from the book of Job have given me fresh perspective on how real people really hurt.

For just a moment look with me at Job’s plight, and maybe to a lesser degree, some emotions that may have invaded you mind and heart. As you read this, think of someone in your life that may be dealing with a Job complex even now. God allowed Satan to attack a man who His Word called, blameless. He lost his children, his wealth, and health. Why didn’t God step in sooner? Why were his friends so condescending? As Job journeyed through the pain, see if his words resonate.

Job 23:8-9
But if I go to the east, he is not there;
if I go to the west, I do not find Him.
When he is at work in the north, I do
not see him; when he turns to the
south, I catch no glimpse of him.
[Have you ever felt like God was hiding?]

Job 23:10
But he knows the way that I take; when
he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
[Often during the struggle you have probably
spoken with words of faith, just as Job did.]

Job 29:2
How I long for the months gone by,
for the days when God watched over me.
[Although you know God has not
stopped watching over you, have
you ever felt like Job did?]

Job 30:27
The churning inside me never stops;
days of suffering confront me.
[Often we wonder if the suffering will ever stop.]

Our journey struggles can cause the same heart cries as those of Job. But lest we forget, God blessed Job’s life abundantly again. Trying to figure out all the reasons for our suffering, or the pain of those we love, is a waste of time and a drain to our faith. By a choice of the will, you can have peace through pain.  And because of that choice, others can see hope. From experience, let me share a few thoughts that I believe will help.

• Decide to hold fast to the promises of God’s Word.
• Remember how God has intervened for you in past.
• Tell the Father exactly how you feel. (He can handle it!)
• Remember to let your faith look beyond today.

God wants joy for your life. He will, however, allow tough seasons. He alone knows the incredible worth of what they can teach you! Our challenge will be in trusting Him through the storms, knowing He is working for our good. Job said it well: “when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”  Take hold of it, and believe it!

If you are struggling with knowing God, or issues of faith, we would love to hear from you.  Reach out, and email us.  Brothers and sisters must stand united in times of testing and struggle.  We are not just words on a page, we are hearts that care.  Ready always to come along side.