Category Archives: Suffering / Adversity

Consequences of Sin, Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Tribulation

Contemplating the Prosperity of the Wicked (Job 21)

Have you ever been engaged in a deep conversation where your find yourself responding to something hurtful that someone else has said to you?

Job finds himself in such a conversation as he responds to the arguments put forth by his friends. In Job 21, we delve into Job’s contemplation of the prosperity of the wicked, which serves as a counter-argument to his friends’ assertions.

Reconnect: In the previous chapter, we witnessed Zophar, one of Job’s friends, presenting his perspective on the fate of the wicked. Zophar discussed the apparent success of the wicked and their eventual downfall, emphasizing divine judgment. Job now responds to these ideas, providing a unique perspective on the topic.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 21

Job Says God Will Deal with the Wicked

      1Then Job answered,

      2“Listen carefully to my speech,
And let this be your way of consolation.

      3“Bear with me that I may speak;
Then after I have spoken, you may mock.

      4“As for me, is my complaint to man?
And why should I not be impatient?

      5“Look at me, and be astonished,
And put your hand over your mouth.

      6“Even when I remember, I am disturbed,
And horror takes hold of my flesh.

      7“Why do the wicked still live,
Continue on, also become very powerful?

      8“Their descendants are established with them in their sight,
And their offspring before their eyes,

      9Their houses are safe from fear,
And the rod of God is not on them.

      10“His ox mates without fail;
His cow calves and does not abort.

      11“They send forth their little ones like the flock,
And their children skip about.

      12“They sing to the timbrel and harp
And rejoice at the sound of the flute.

      13“They spend their days in prosperity,
And suddenly they go down to Sheol.

      14“They say to God, ‘Depart from us!
We do not even desire the knowledge of Your ways.

      15‘Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him,
And what would we gain if we entreat Him?’

      16“Behold, their prosperity is not in their hand;
The counsel of the wicked is far from me.

      17“How often is the lamp of the wicked put out,
Or does their calamity fall on them?
Does God apportion destruction in His anger?

      18“Are they as straw before the wind,
And like chaff which the storm carries away?

      19“You say, ‘God stores away a man’s iniquity for his sons.’
Let God repay him so that he may know it.

      20“Let his own eyes see his decay,
And let him drink of the wrath of the Almighty.

      21“For what does he care for his household after him,
When the number of his months is cut off?

      22“Can anyone teach God knowledge,
In that He judges those on high?

      23“One dies in his full strength,
Being wholly at ease and satisfied;

      24His sides are filled out with fat,
And the marrow of his bones is moist,

      25While another dies with a bitter soul,
Never even tasting anything good.

      26“Together they lie down in the dust,
And worms cover them.

      27“Behold, I know your thoughts,
And the plans by which you would wrong me.

      28“For you say, ‘Where is the house of the nobleman,
And where is the tent, the dwelling places of the wicked?’

      29“Have you not asked wayfaring men,
And do you not recognize their witness?

      30“For the wicked is reserved for the day of calamity;
They will be led forth at the day of fury.

      31“Who will confront him with his actions,
And who will repay him for what he has done?

      32“While he is carried to the grave,
Men will keep watch over his tomb.

      33“The clods of the valley will gently cover him;
Moreover, all men will follow after him,
While countless ones go before him.

      34“How then will you vainly comfort me,
For your answers remain full of falsehood?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Counter-Argument: Job offers a thought-provoking counter-argument to his friends’ assertions about the fate of the wicked. He acknowledges the reality that, at times, the wicked do indeed prosper, enjoying long lives, secure households, flourishing children, and abundant possessions.
  2. Questioning Divine Justice: Job’s response raises profound questions about divine justice. He wonders aloud why the wicked appear to escape suffering while they mock God and live without fear of divine retribution.
  3. The Unpredictability of Life: Job highlights the unpredictability of life, where both the righteous and the wicked may face suffering or prosperity, challenging the simplistic views of his friends.

Job’s response encourages us to reflect on the complexities of life and divine justice. Have you ever grappled with the apparent prosperity of those who seem far from righteous? Take time to pray and seek God’s wisdom in understanding the mysteries of life’s experiences and His divine plan.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly seek Your wisdom and guidance as we navigate life’s complexities. Help us to understand the mysteries of Your divine justice and the unpredictable nature of our journey. Grant us discernment and a heart filled with compassion. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on the questions raised by Job’s response. Have you ever questioned why the wicked appear to prosper while living in defiance of God? Engage in meaningful discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Justice / Judgment, Wickedness / Evil

The Illusion of Success in Wickedness (Job 20)

Have you ever encountered individuals who appear to thrive in their wicked ways, seemingly experiencing prolonged success?

It can be perplexing and disheartening to witness.

In Job 20, we explore the insights shared by Job’s friends as they grapple with the notion that the wicked can prosper for an extended period, leading us to consider the ultimate judgment that awaits them in the presence of God.

Reconnect: In the Book of Job, we find ourselves amidst a series of intense dialogues between Job and his friends. Job has been enduring unimaginable suffering, and his friends, including Zophar, have been attempting to explain the reasons behind his trials. Job’s friends continue to hold to the belief that Job’s suffering is a consequence of his sin, leading to their ongoing discussions and debates.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 20

Zophar Says, “The Triumph of the Wicked Is Short”

      1Then Zophar the Naamathite answered,

      2“Therefore my disquieting thoughts make me respond,
Even because of my inward agitation.

      3“I listened to the reproof which insults me,
And the spirit of my understanding makes me answer.

      4“Do you know this from of old,
From the establishment of man on earth,

      5That the triumphing of the wicked is short,
And the joy of the godless momentary?

      6“Though his loftiness reaches the heavens,
And his head touches the clouds,

      7He perishes forever like his refuse;
Those who have seen him will say, ‘Where is he?’

      8“He flies away like a dream, and they cannot find him;
Even like a vision of the night he is chased away.

      9“The eye which saw him sees him no longer,
And his place no longer beholds him.

      10“His sons favor the poor,
And his hands give back his wealth.

      11“His bones are full of his youthful vigor,
But it lies down with him in the dust.

      12“Though evil is sweet in his mouth
And he hides it under his tongue,

      13Though he desires it and will not let it go,
But holds it in his mouth,

      14Yet his food in his stomach is changed
To the venom of cobras within him.

      15“He swallows riches,
But will vomit them up;
God will expel them from his belly.

      16“He sucks the poison of cobras;
The viper’s tongue slays him.

      17“He does not look at the streams,
The rivers flowing with honey and curds.

      18“He returns what he has attained
And cannot swallow it;
As to the riches of his trading,
He cannot even enjoy them.

      19“For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor;
He has seized a house which he has not built.

      20“Because he knew no quiet within him,
He does not retain anything he desires.

      21“Nothing remains for him to devour,
Therefore his prosperity does not endure.

      22“In the fullness of his plenty he will be cramped;
The hand of everyone who suffers will come against him.

      23“When he fills his belly,
God will send His fierce anger on him
And will rain it on him while he is eating.

      24“He may flee from the iron weapon,
But the bronze bow will pierce him.

      25“It is drawn forth and comes out of his back,
Even the glittering point from his gall.
Terrors come upon him,

      26Complete darkness is held in reserve for his treasures,
And unfanned fire will devour him;
It will consume the survivor in his tent.

      27“The heavens will reveal his iniquity,
And the earth will rise up against him.

      28“The increase of his house will depart;
His possessions will flow away in the day of His anger.

      29“This is the wicked man’s portion from God,
Even the heritage decreed to him by God.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Zophar’s Perspective: In Job 20, Zophar offers his perspective on the fate of the wicked. He presents the idea that the wicked may experience periods of success, giving the impression that they thrive in their wickedness.
  2. Apparent Prosperity: Zophar paints a vivid picture of the wicked’s apparent prosperity, describing their opulent lifestyles, flourishing enterprises, and the illusion of sustained triumph.
  3. The Swift Demise: Despite their success, Zophar warns that the wicked will eventually face a sudden and irreversible downfall. He speaks of God’s judgment, which will ultimately overtake them.

Let us reflect on the ongoing discussions in the Book of Job and consider the choices we make in our lives. Have you ever questioned why the wicked seem to prosper? Take a moment to pray for discernment in understanding divine justice and to seek God’s guidance in your own journey.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before you seeking wisdom and discernment. Help us understand the complexities of divine justice, especially when we witness the apparent success of the wicked. Guide us in our own choices, and may we trust in your ultimate judgment. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on the challenges posed by the success of the wicked. Have you questioned why it seems that sometimes they thrive?

Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to comment below to share your insights and reflections.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Tribulation

Job’s Cry of Faith and Hope (Job 19)

Have you ever felt so utterly alone, as if the world had turned against you, and there was no one left to comfort or understand your pain?

Imagine the depths of despair and suffering, and yet, within that darkness, a glimmer of faith and hope emerges. This is the essence of Job’s remarkable story, particularly in Job 19.

Before delving into Job 19, let’s briefly recap the preceding chapters of Job.

Job, a righteous man, faced a series of devastating trials, including the loss of his wealth, health, and children. In his suffering, Job’s friends came to offer comfort but ended up accusing him of hidden sin as the cause of his afflictions. Despite this, Job has maintained his faith in God while wrestling with the questions of suffering and justice. In this chapter, we witness Job’s unwavering hope in the midst of his suffering.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 19

Job Feels Insulted

      1Then Job responded,

      2“How long will you torment me
And crush me with words?

      3“These ten times you have insulted me;
You are not ashamed to wrong me.

      4“Even if I have truly erred,
My error lodges with me.

      5“If indeed you vaunt yourselves against me
And prove my disgrace to me,

      6Know then that God has wronged me
And has closed His net around me.

Everything Is against Him

7“Behold, I cry, ‘Violence!’ but I get no answer;
I shout for help, but there is no justice.

      8“He has walled up my way so that I cannot pass,
And He has put darkness on my paths.

      9“He has stripped my honor from me
And removed the crown from my head.

      10“He breaks me down on every side, and I am gone;
And He has uprooted my hope like a tree.

      11“He has also kindled His anger against me
And considered me as His enemy.

      12“His troops come together,
And build up their way against me
And camp around my tent.

      13“He has removed my brothers far from me,
And my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.

      14“My relatives have failed,
And my intimate friends have forgotten me.

      15“Those who live in my house and my maids consider me a stranger.
I am a foreigner in their sight.

      16“I call to my servant, but he does not answer;
I have to implore him with my mouth.

      17“My breath is offensive to my wife,
And I am loathsome to my own brothers.

      18“Even young children despise me;
I rise up and they speak against me.

      19“All my associates abhor me,
And those I love have turned against me.

      20“My bone clings to my skin and my flesh,
And I have escaped only by the skin of my teeth.

      21“Pity me, pity me, O you my friends,
For the hand of God has struck me.

      22“Why do you persecute me as God does,
And are not satisfied with my flesh?

Job Says, “My Redeemer Lives”

23“Oh that my words were written!
Oh that they were inscribed in a book!

      24“That with an iron stylus and lead
They were engraved in the rock forever!

      25“As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
And at the last He will take His stand on the earth.

      26“Even after my skin is destroyed,
Yet from my flesh I shall see God;

      27Whom I myself shall behold,
And whom my eyes will see and not another.
My heart faints within me!

      28“If you say, ‘How shall we persecute him?’
And ‘What pretext for a case against him can we find?’

      29“Then be afraid of the sword for yourselves,
For wrath brings the punishment of the sword,
So that you may know there is judgment.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Profound Suffering: Job’s afflictions have reached an unbearable point. He is physically and emotionally tormented, covered in painful sores, and surrounded by friends who misunderstand and accuse him.
  2. A Cry for a Redeemer: Despite his anguish, Job clings to a glimmer of hope—a hope in a Redeemer who will vindicate him. In the midst of despair, he expresses an unwavering belief that his Redeemer lives and will one day stand upon the earth.
  3. Resilience in Faith: Job’s story teaches us the power of resilience in faith. Even when life’s circumstances seem utterly bleak, when it appears that God has turned against us, we can still hold on to the hope of redemption and restoration.
  4. The Promise of Restoration: Job’s cry for a Redeemer foreshadows the ultimate redemption we find in Jesus Christ. In Christ, we have a Redeemer who not only vindicates us but also offers us salvation and eternal life.

As we contemplate Job’s remarkable faith amid suffering, let us consider our own trials and tribulations. Are there moments in our lives when we, like Job, feel abandoned and afflicted? Take comfort in knowing that our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, is alive and present in our struggles.

Let us pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, in our moments of despair and suffering, we thank you for the hope we find in Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Just as Job clung to the belief in his Redeemer, help us to hold on to the assurance of salvation and restoration through Christ. Strengthen our faith and grant us resilience in the face of adversity. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion and Comment: Have you ever experienced a moment of deep suffering where your faith was tested? How did you find hope and resilience during that time? Share your thoughts, engage in meaningful discussions with others, and leave your comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Tribulation

Bildad’s Condemnation: The Unrelenting Words of Job’s Friend (Job 18)

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where the words spoken cut like a sharpened blade?

Where someone’s words seem to pour salt into your wounds instead of offering comfort?

In the Book of Job, we encounter such a conversation, as Bildad, one of Job’s friends, responds to Job’s ongoing suffering with unrelenting words of condemnation.

Reconnect: Before we delve into Job 18, let’s recall the context. Job, a righteous man, has experienced unimaginable suffering—losing his wealth, health, and family. His friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar have come to offer comfort, but their words have often been filled with accusations that Job’s suffering is the result of some hidden sin.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 18

Bildad Speaks of the Wicked

      1Then Bildad the Shuhite responded,

      2“How long will you hunt for words?
Show understanding and then we can talk.

      3“Why are we regarded as beasts,
As stupid in your eyes?

      4“O you who tear yourself in your anger—
For your sake is the earth to be abandoned,
Or the rock to be moved from its place?

      5“Indeed, the light of the wicked goes out,
And the flame of his fire gives no light.

      6“The light in his tent is darkened,
And his lamp goes out above him.

      7“His vigorous stride is shortened,
And his own scheme brings him down.

      8“For he is thrown into the net by his own feet,
And he steps on the webbing.

      9“A snare seizes him by the heel,
And a trap snaps shut on him.

      10“A noose for him is hidden in the ground,
And a trap for him on the path.

      11“All around terrors frighten him,
And harry him at every step.

      12“His strength is famished,
And calamity is ready at his side.

      13“His skin is devoured by disease,
The firstborn of death devours his limbs.

      14“He is torn from the security of his tent,
And they march him before the king of terrors.

      15“There dwells in his tent nothing of his;
Brimstone is scattered on his habitation.

      16“His roots are dried below,
And his branch is cut off above.

      17“Memory of him perishes from the earth,
And he has no name abroad.

      18“He is driven from light into darkness,
And chased from the inhabited world.

      19“He has no offspring or posterity among his people,
Nor any survivor where he sojourned.

      20“Those in the west are appalled at his fate,
And those in the east are seized with horror.

      21“Surely such are the dwellings of the wicked,
And this is the place of him who does not know God.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Bildad’s Harsh Accusations: In Job 18, Bildad continues his relentless accusations against Job. He portrays Job as a wicked man, describing him as a “fool” who brings trouble upon himself through his own actions. Bildad’s words reflect the prevailing belief of the time that suffering was a direct consequence of sin. He asserts that Job’s suffering is evidence of divine judgment.
  2. The Fate of the Wicked: Bildad paints a grim picture of the fate that awaits the wicked. He describes a series of calamities that befall the wicked, including the snare of the grave and the destruction of his household. According to Bildad, the wicked will be forgotten and their memory blotted out from the earth.
  3. Job’s Response: Job, however, remains resolute in his innocence. Despite Bildad’s harsh words and the overwhelming weight of his suffering, Job maintains his trust in God. He continues to seek answers, to plead his case before the Almighty, and to long for a mediator who can represent him before God.

As we reflect on Bildad’s words in Job 18, we are reminded of the importance of choosing our words carefully, especially when someone is going through a season of suffering. Instead of rushing to judgment or making assumptions about the causes of another’s pain, let us offer compassion, empathy, and support.

Take a few moments now and pray that we have the wisdom to speak words that heal rather than wound, and that we may be agents of comfort in the lives of those who are suffering.

Discussion and Comment:

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were quick to judge someone’s suffering?

How can we learn from Bildad’s approach and strive to be more compassionate in our responses to those who are hurting?

Share your thoughts and engage in a discussion with friends or family about the importance of offering comfort and understanding in times of suffering.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Finding Refuge in the Lord’s Shelter (Psalm 64)

Have you ever felt surrounded by troubles, like enemies are plotting against you?

In Psalm 64, we find David in a similar situation, seeking refuge and protection from his adversaries.

Psalm 64

Prayer for Deliverance from Secret Enemies.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
Preserve my life from dread of the enemy.

      2Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers,
From the tumult of those who do iniquity,

      3Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.
They aimed bitter speech as their arrow,

      4To shoot from concealment at the blameless;
Suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear.

      5They hold fast to themselves an evil purpose;
They talk of laying snares secretly;
They say, “Who can see them?”

      6They devise injustices, saying,
“We are ready with a well-conceived plot”;
For the inward thought and the heart of a man are deep.

      7But God will shoot at them with an arrow;
Suddenly they will be wounded.

      8So they will make him stumble;
Their own tongue is against them;
All who see them will shake the head.

      9Then all men will fear,
And they will declare the work of God,
And will consider what He has done.

      10The righteous man will be glad in the LORD and will take refuge in Him;
And all the upright in heart will glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Crying Out for Protection: In Psalm 64, David begins by crying out to the Lord, asking Him to protect him from his enemies who are plotting against him. He describes their schemes and wicked intentions.
  2. Confidence in God’s Justice: Despite the enemy’s threats, David expresses his confidence in God’s justice. He believes that the Lord will bring judgment upon the wicked and that they will face the consequences of their evil deeds.
  3. Rejoicing in God’s Deliverance: As the psalm progresses, David’s tone shifts from fear to hope. He rejoices in the Lord’s deliverance, trusting that God will intervene on his behalf and vindicate him.
  4. Reflecting on God’s Power: David reflects on God’s power and sovereignty, recognizing that the righteous can find refuge and strength in the Lord even when faced with adversity.

As we read Psalm 64, we can learn to turn to the Lord in times of trouble, just as David did.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own challenges and adversities.

Are there areas in our lives where we need God’s protection and deliverance?

Pray to the Lord, seeking His guidance, protection, and justice.

Share your thoughts and prayers with a trusted friend or family member, and let this psalm remind you of the refuge we find in our faithful God and share your thoughts in the comments.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Tribulation

Job Struggles to Find Hope Amid Desolation (Job 17)

Have you ever felt like you were surrounded by darkness and despair, desperately seeking a glimmer of hope?

In Job 17, we step into the shoes of Job as he navigates through the depths of his suffering, yearning for a ray of light in his seemingly endless night.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 17

Job Says He Has Become a Byword

1“My spirit is broken, my days are extinguished,
The grave is ready for me.

      2“Surely mockers are with me,
And my eye gazes on their provocation.

      3“Lay down, now, a pledge for me with Yourself;
Who is there that will be my guarantor?

      4“For You have kept their heart from understanding,
Therefore You will not exalt them.

      5“He who informs against friends for a share of the spoil,
The eyes of his children also will languish.

      6“But He has made me a byword of the people,
And I am one at whom men spit.

      7“My eye has also grown dim because of grief,
And all my members are as a shadow.

      8“The upright will be appalled at this,
And the innocent will stir up himself against the godless.

      9“Nevertheless the righteous will hold to his way,
And he who has clean hands will grow stronger and stronger.

      10“But come again all of you now,
For I do not find a wise man among you.

      11“My days are past, my plans are torn apart,
Even the wishes of my heart.

      12“They make night into day, saying,
‘The light is near,’ in the presence of darkness.

      13“If I look for Sheol as my home,
I make my bed in the darkness;

      14If I call to the pit, ‘You are my father’;
To the worm, ‘my mother and my sister’;

      15Where now is my hope?
And who regards my hope?

      16“Will it go down with me to Sheol?
Shall we together go down into the dust?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Deep Despair: In Job 17, we witness Job’s profound despair and desolation. He describes the bleakness of his situation, emphasizing the darkness that has enveloped his life.
  2. Job’s Plea for Understanding: Job continues to seek understanding and justice, urging his friends to reconsider their accusations against him. He longs for empathy and support in his time of suffering.
  3. The Absence of Explicit Hope: While Job does not explicitly express hope for a future beyond suffering in this chapter, his unwavering faith and determination to seek answers from God demonstrate his resilience in the face of adversity.

As we reflect on Job’s deep despair and his continued search for understanding and justice, let us remember the importance of empathy and support in the lives of those who are suffering. Sometimes, simply being there for someone, listening to their struggles, and offering comfort can make a world of difference.

Take a moment today to reach out to someone who may be going through a difficult time. It could be a friend, a family member, or a colleague. Let them know that you are there for them, willing to listen without judgment, and ready to offer your support.

Additionally, spend some time in prayer for those who are facing trials and tribulations. Ask the Lord to provide them with the strength to endure and the comfort they need. Let us be the compassionate and understanding friends that Job longed for in his time of suffering.

Consider discussing this passage and the importance of empathy with a trusted friend or family member, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, we can learn from Job’s experience and strive to be sources of comfort and compassion for those in need.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Compassion, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Fellowship, Help / Serve Others, Seeking God, Tribulation

Job’s Cry for Empathy and Comfort (Job 16)

Have you ever faced overwhelming suffering and longed for empathy, comfort, and compassion from your friends?

In Job 16, we join Job in his deep distress, seeking understanding and solace in the midst of his trials.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters (Job 14-15), Job and his friends engage in a series of dialogues. Job passionately expresses his longing for empathy, comfort, and compassion, while his friends continue to offer explanations for his suffering based on their limited understanding.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 16

Job Says Friends Are Sorry Comforters

      1Then Job answered,

      2“I have heard many such things;
Sorry comforters are you all.

      3“Is there no limit to windy words?
Or what plagues you that you answer?

      4“I too could speak like you,
If I were in your place.
I could compose words against you
And shake my head at you.

      5“I could strengthen you with my mouth,
And the solace of my lips could lessen your pain.

Job Says God Shattered Him

6“If I speak, my pain is not lessened,
And if I hold back, what has left me?

      7“But now He has exhausted me;
You have laid waste all my company.

      8“You have shriveled me up,
It has become a witness;
And my leanness rises up against me,
It testifies to my face.

      9“His anger has torn me and hunted me down,
He has gnashed at me with His teeth;
My adversary glares at me.

      10“They have gaped at me with their mouth,
They have slapped me on the cheek with contempt;
They have massed themselves against me.

      11“God hands me over to ruffians
And tosses me into the hands of the wicked.

      12“I was at ease, but He shattered me,
And He has grasped me by the neck and shaken me to pieces;
He has also set me up as His target.

      13“His arrows surround me.
Without mercy He splits my kidneys open;
He pours out my gall on the ground.

      14“He breaks through me with breach after breach;
He runs at me like a warrior.

      15“I have sewed sackcloth over my skin
And thrust my horn in the dust.

      16“My face is flushed from weeping,
And deep darkness is on my eyelids,

      17Although there is no violence in my hands,
And my prayer is pure.

      18“O earth, do not cover my blood,
And let there be no resting place for my cry.

      19“Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven,
And my advocate is on high.

      20“My friends are my scoffers;
My eye weeps to God.

      21“O that a man might plead with God
As a man with his neighbor!

      22“For when a few years are past,
I shall go the way of no return.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Suffering Intensifies: By the time we reach Job 16, we find Job’s suffering has intensified. He’s been grappling with the loss of his wealth, health, and family, and he longs for relief. Job’s friends, rather than offering comfort, have added to his pain by assuming he’s suffering because of hidden sins.
  2. Job’s Frustration with His Friends: Job becomes increasingly frustrated with his friends’ accusations and lack of empathy. He feels their words are like empty proverbs and unhelpful comfort, adding to his misery.
  3. Job’s Reliance on God: Despite his suffering and frustration, Job does not give up on God. He continues to look to the Almighty as his witness and advocate, believing that even in his suffering, there is a deeper purpose.

As we reflect on Job’s desperate cry for empathy and comfort from his friends, may we recognize the importance of being compassionate when comforting those who suffer.

Let us seek to be understanding and solace-givers at times rather than just problem-solvers.

In our discussions and reflections, consider how you can provide comfort and compassion to those facing trials.

Engage in conversations with friends or family members, sharing your thoughts on the significance of empathy in times of suffering.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

Seeking Comfort in the Wilderness (Psalm 63)

Have you ever been through tough times and wished you had something to make you feel better?

Imagine feeling really thirsty in the middle of a hot desert and wanting a drink more than anything.

That’s how the writer of Psalm 63 felt, but he wasn’t looking for water; he was searching for something deeper—God’s presence.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Psalm 63

The Thirsting Soul Satisfied in God.

A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah.

     1O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly;
My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.

      2Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.

      3Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips will praise You.

      4So I will bless You as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.

      5My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness,
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.

      6When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches,

      7For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.

      8My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me.

      9But those who seek my life to destroy it,
Will go into the depths of the earth.

      10They will be delivered over to the power of the sword;
They will be a prey for foxes.

      11But the king will rejoice in God;
Everyone who swears by Him will glory,
For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. David’s Deep Longing for God: David strongly desired to be near God, similar to how we might deeply long for something important, such as finding true love or achieving our life’s purpose. This illustrates how essential God was in his life.
  2. The Desert as a Symbol: Imagine life being like a dry, empty desert, where you don’t have what you need. David used the desert as a way to explain how life can sometimes be really tough and challenging. He believed that God could help him, even in the hardest times.
  3. Looking for God’s Comfort: David made it a point to find God, even when he was in a tough spot. This teaches us that when things get rough, we should turn to God, just like talking to a good friend when you need help.
  4. Finding What Truly Matters: David realized that wanting God in his life was more important than all the other things people usually want, like fancy stuff or being famous. He learned that God could make him feel full and satisfied inside, even when things weren’t going well.

Think about times when you felt down or troubled. Reflect on how you handled that experience. Next time, try spending some quiet moments with God, either by praying, thinking about good things, or singing songs.

Share your experiences with your friends or family, and encourage them to do the same when they face tough times. Comment to share your experiences with others as well.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Seeking God, Tribulation

Embracing Hope in the Depths of Suffering (Job 14)

Have you ever found yourself in the grip of relentless suffering, wondering if there’s an end in sight?

Join me on a journey through Job 14, where we explore the profound parallels between Job’s anguish and our own, contemplating the raw emotions tied to pain, the longing for relief, and the questions surrounding life’s challenges.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 14

Job Speaks of the Finality of Death

1“Man, who is born of woman,
Is short-lived and full of turmoil.

      2“Like a flower he comes forth and withers.
He also flees like a shadow and does not remain.

      3“You also open Your eyes on him
And bring him into judgment with Yourself.

      4“Who can make the clean out of the unclean?
No one!

      5“Since his days are determined,
The number of his months is with You;
And his limits You have set so that he cannot pass.

      6“Turn Your gaze from him that he may rest,
Until he fulfills his day like a hired man.

      7“For there is hope for a tree,
When it is cut down, that it will sprout again,
And its shoots will not fail.

      8“Though its roots grow old in the ground
And its stump dies in the dry soil,

      9At the scent of water it will flourish
And put forth sprigs like a plant.

      10“But man dies and lies prostrate.
Man expires, and where is he?

      11“As water evaporates from the sea,
And a river becomes parched and dried up,

      12So man lies down and does not rise.
Until the heavens are no longer,
He will not awake nor be aroused out of his sleep.

      13“Oh that You would hide me in Sheol,
That You would conceal me until Your wrath returns to You,
That You would set a limit for me and remember me!

      14“If a man dies, will he live again?
All the days of my struggle I will wait
Until my change comes.

      15“You will call, and I will answer You;
You will long for the work of Your hands.

      16“For now You number my steps,
You do not observe my sin.

      17“My transgression is sealed up in a bag,
And You wrap up my iniquity.

      18“But the falling mountain crumbles away,
And the rock moves from its place;

      19Water wears away stones,
Its torrents wash away the dust of the earth;
So You destroy man’s hope.

      20“You forever overpower him and he departs;
You change his appearance and send him away.

      21“His sons achieve honor, but he does not know it;
Or they become insignificant, but he does not perceive it.

      22“But his body pains him,
And he mourns only for himself.”

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Resilience in Desolation: Job, navigating immense suffering, demonstrates a resilient spirit. Acknowledging life’s fleeting nature, he likens it to a withering flower. Amid his pain, he clings to hope, recognizing the limit set by God on his suffering.
  2. Confusion in Divine Sovereignty: Accepting God’s sovereignty in trials offers comfort but is accompanied by confusion. Job, perplexed yet steadfast, chooses to lead his heart toward accepting God’s sovereignty, finding hope in unwavering faith.
  3. A Declaration of Hope: In a poignant moment, Job declares unwavering hope in God, even if death were to be his fate. This profound faith prompts him to bring his case before God, seeking understanding amid trials.

Reflecting on Job’s journey, share your thoughts and engage in discussions with friends or family who’ve walked through challenging times.

Job’s experience, a testament to resilience and hope, might resonate with your own struggles. Explore these emotions together and find solace in the company of trusted companions.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

 

Depression / Discouragement, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

Finding Tranquility in Trust (Psalm 62)

Have you ever longed for a place of tranquility amid life’s chaos?

Join us in exploring Psalm 62, a poetic journey penned by David. In the midst of uncertainty, David unveils the secret to finding peace—absolute trust in God.

As we delve into the verses, discover the profound wisdom that leads to tranquility when we anchor our trust in the Almighty.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Psalm 62

God Alone a Refuge from Treachery and Oppression.

For the choir director; according to Jeduthun. A Psalm of David.

      1My soul waits in silence for God only;
From Him is my salvation.

      2He only is my rock and my salvation,
My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.

      3How long will you assail a man,
That you may murder him, all of you,
Like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence?

      4They have counseled only to thrust him down from his high position;
They delight in falsehood;
They bless with their mouth,
But inwardly they curse.

Selah.

      5My soul, wait in silence for God only,
For my hope is from Him.

      6He only is my rock and my salvation,
My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.

      7On God my salvation and my glory rest;
The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.

      8Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.

Selah.

      9Men of low degree are only vanity and men of rank are a lie;
In the balances they go up;
They are together lighter than breath.

      10Do not trust in oppression
And do not vainly hope in robbery;
If riches increase, do not set your heart upon them.

      11Once God has spoken;
Twice I have heard this:
That power belongs to God;

      12And lovingkindness is Yours, O Lord,
For You recompense a man according to his work.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Rock of Absolute Trust: Uncover the metaphorical language used by David to describe God as his rock and salvation. Explore the symbolism behind relying on an unshakable foundation and the tranquility that comes from placing absolute trust in God.
  2. Silencing External Chaos: Delve into the imagery of David silencing external chaos, portraying a soul at rest even when surrounded by turmoil. Examine the transformative power of trust in God to bring calmness to the storms of life.
  3. The Unchanging Nature of God: Explore the consistency in David’s trust, emphasizing God’s unwavering character. Reflect on the timeless nature of God’s love and faithfulness, providing a source of enduring tranquility.

As we reflect on the serenity found in Psalm 62, let’s share our experiences of finding tranquility in trust.

In the comments, express how absolute trust in God has anchored you in moments of chaos.

Consider sharing this message with someone who may need a reminder of the peace that comes from leaning on the unchanging nature of our Creator.

Join us in creating a community that draws strength from the tranquility discovered in unwavering trust in the Almighty.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.