Tests

Job 1:1-22

Do you ever think about how terrible you have it? I know that seems odd, but seriously, how often do you go through things and just can't believe how bad it is? I know that I, for one, am guilty of this. Sometimes, I may think to myself, "Lord, how will I get out of this? When will it be over, God?" I too often find myself in a complaining mode. I may not complain out loud, but in my mind, I think it.

However, God is so much bigger than my circumstance. This past weekend, I was privileged to hear Pastor Debbie Gamble speak. She said something that struck me. She said, "You may not have control over your circumstance, but you do have control over your atmosphere."

I considered Job. He had everything going for him. Satan approached the Lord and asked to take things away from him to prove that Job would indeed curse God. God said, "Ok, let's see what he does, but do not bring harm on the man himself." (my translation).

So Satan proceeds to take all of his animals and destroy them (his wealth) and kills his sons and daughters (his lineage, future). Satan was sure that Job would curse God, but instead Job says, "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised" (Job 1:21 NIV). The chapter goes on to say, "In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." (Job 1:22 NIV).
Now I don't know about you but I know that it would have been pretty hard for me to not ask God why he did that. Job didn't do this. The word even says that it would be a sin to charge God with wrongdoing. Wow!

In the New Testament, it says that, "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12 NIV). I want to persevere and stand the test. I want the Lord to tell me, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Father, forgive me for charging you with wrongdoing. Give me grace to withstand the test. Help me to control my atmosphere regardless of my circumstance. I love you, Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.