On Wednesday our pastor brought a message from the book of Job. I have read this book and have marveled at the character. Job (the patient), no wonder he was patient. James tells us that the trying of our faith worketh patience. Also the book of Job is considered the first "book of poetry". I can think of many great hymns and poems that were brought forth from great trials. Can you hear the Jews singing the songs of Job? How about these verses from Job 19 (part of Pastor's message on Weds.)
"...I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me."
What an amazing statement for a man who went through what Job went through. What a man of faith.
I have thought many times what life might be like if I lived in a place that did not allow the worship of God. A place where I could not speak freely as I am here about the mighty works of God and how good He is. Would I be courageous? Would I give in for the protection of my family and friends?
In the world where we live, our freedom of worship is not a certain as it once was. We have always been pilgrims and strangers on this earth. Our forever home is in heaven. Thinking of losing the freedoms we have always enjoyed can be a frightening thought. As I till the garden and plant the seeds and enjoy the fellowship of other Christians, I may not always think about this. There are times that I do and I wonder if I would make a statement like Job in Job 19:25-27.
We do serve a great and good God, a mighty and powerful God. I know He is able to keep me strong and keep me from stumbling. If and when the day comes when we are living in a place that allows none to worship and honor God, I pray that He will give me courage and strength.
I may be thinking about the future and preparing for the future, but by God's strength I should not fear the future.
Our times are in God's hands and all things are under His control and direction.
Very thought-provoking post indeed. One thing God has been teaching me over the past few years is that the very best preparation for whatever the future holds is to stay close to Him, to become ever more familiar with His Word and to remain in an attitude of prayer throughout each day. The better we know God, the more able we are to face the unknown. Someone has written, "We should always filter every pain through the lens of deity. When God is in sharp focus, then life is also undistorted."
ReplyDeleteClinging to God is sometimes all I am able to do. It should be the only thing I ever do, but sadly, I often look around for someone to talk to about my troubles. He should be the first always. I am still learning this lesson.
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog, Mrs. T :)