“Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! Oh that with an iron pen and lead they were engraved in the rock forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!” (v23-27)
Despite his ongoing laments and suffering, Job ultimately still clings to great hope and faith. Job longs that his suffering not be wasted, that others would hear of it and be encouraged (looks like he got that wish).
Importantly, he proclaims that his savior lives, and that means Job may also experience true life because of that fact (not the hollow, broken life he’s currently experiencing). Job also states he will only behold God, and no other – this is encouraging since he has spent many chapters speaking of how God has turned against him, yet Job has not turned his heart against God.
Do we have days where we feel God has turned against us? You know what I mean – those days where “everything” that could go wrong, did go wrong? Maybe there was even a tragedy, and we’re upset with God for allowing it to happen. Can we make the same bold proclamation as Job, that we will steadfastly behold God, and no other, because our redeemer lives, even when we’re having the worst day of our lives?
I would encourage us to hold fast to God, and weather the storm. God promises that we can be bold and confidently trust He will never leave or forsake us: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Jos 1:9)
Let’s celebrate our redeemer, and our eternal life that is yet to come, especially in the worst of times. I’d like to close with one of my favorite quotes: “When you feel abandoned by God but continue to trust Him, you worship Him in the deepest way.” – Steve Gladen
Father God, our Almighty King, You are sovereign over all heaven and earth. We confess our understanding is limited, and we don’t often know why You allow the things You allow. However, we can stand strong in our faith, knowing that You promise to strengthen and uphold us with Your righteous right hand, so we can be bold and courageous. Father thank you for redeeming us. May all honor, praise and glory be to You O Lord God, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training