Category Archives: Tribulation

Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Purposeful / Intentional, Tribulation

Following in His Steps (1 Peter 2:21-25)

How do you respond when treated unfairly?

1 Peter 2:21-25 reminds us that as followers of Yeshua, we are called to endure suffering with patience, just as He did. He is our example, showing us how to respond to injustice with grace and trust in God.

Key Verse:
“For you have been called for this purpose, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps.” – 1 Peter 2:21 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter writes to believers who were experiencing persecution and hardship. Instead of encouraging them to fight back, he points them to Christ’s example—one of humility, endurance, and complete trust in God’s justice. This passage teaches us that suffering for righteousness is part of our calling, and through it, we grow to be more like Christ.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 2: 21-25

Christ Is Our Example

      21For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, 22WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; 23and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously; 24and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. 25For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:21-25:

  • We Are Called to Suffer Like Christ:
    Peter makes it clear that suffering is not accidental—it is part of our calling (1 Peter 2:21). Just as Yeshua suffered unjustly yet remained faithful, we are to endure hardship with trust in God. How do you respond when facing mistreatment?

  • Christ’s Perfect Example:
    Yeshua committed no sin, yet He suffered without complaint (1 Peter 2:22). He did not retaliate or threaten but entrusted Himself to the Father (1 Peter 2:23). Are you following His example when faced with injustice?

  • He Bore Our Sins to Bring Us Life:
    Yeshua suffered not for His own wrongdoing, but for ours. By His wounds, we are healed, restored, and called to live righteously (1 Peter 2:24). Are you living in the freedom and righteousness He has given you?

  • The Shepherd of Our Souls:
    Peter closes with a powerful image—before salvation, we were like lost sheep, but now we have returned to the Shepherd (1 Peter 2:25). No matter what we face, we are under the care of our loving Savior. Do you trust Him to guide and protect you?

Summary Key Points:

  • Suffering for righteousness is part of our calling.
  • Yeshua is our perfect example of patience and trust.
  • He suffered for us, bringing healing and restoration.
  • We are under the loving care of our Shepherd.

Application:
When you face trials, look to Yeshua’s example. Instead of retaliating, choose to trust God’s justice. Surrender your pain to Him and walk in the righteousness He has given you, knowing that He sees and cares for you.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Yeshua as our example and our Savior. Help me to follow in His steps, responding to suffering with trust and patience. Teach me to endure hardship with faith, knowing that You are my Shepherd and my refuge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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.

All Powerful / King of All, Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Seeking God, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation

Crying Out to the Lord (Psalm 142)

Where do you turn when you feel completely alone?

Psalm 142 is a raw and honest prayer of desperation. David, hiding in a cave, cries out to God, acknowledging his distress and isolation. Yet, even in the darkest moments, he places his trust in the Lord. This psalm reminds us that no matter how abandoned or overwhelmed we feel, God hears and rescues those who call on Him.

Key Verse:
“I cried out to You, Lord; I said, ‘You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.’” – Psalm 142:5 (NASB)

Background Context:
David wrote this psalm while hiding in a cave, likely during the time King Saul was pursuing him. He was physically alone, hunted, and uncertain of his future. Yet, rather than relying on his own strength, he poured out his heart to God. This psalm teaches us that in times of distress, our greatest refuge is found in the Lord.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 142

Prayer for Help in Trouble.

Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer.

     1I cry aloud with my voice to the LORD;
I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.

      2I pour out my complaint before Him;
I declare my trouble before Him.

      3When my spirit was overwhelmed within me,
You knew my path.
In the way where I walk
They have hidden a trap for me.

      4Look to the right and see;
For there is no one who regards me;
There is no escape for me;
No one cares for my soul.

      5I cried out to You, O LORD;
I said, “You are my refuge,
My portion in the land of the living.

      6“Give heed to my cry,
For I am brought very low;
Deliver me from my persecutors,
For they are too strong for me.

      7“Bring my soul out of prison,
So that I may give thanks to Your name;
The righteous will surround me,
For You will deal bountifully with me.”

Reflection on Psalm 142:

  • Honest Prayer in Desperation:
    David does not hide his emotions—he cries out, pours out his complaint, and declares his trouble before the Lord (Psalm 142:1-2). God invites us to be honest with Him, bringing our burdens before Him. Do you take your troubles to God first, or do you try to carry them alone?

  • Feeling Alone and Overwhelmed:
    David laments that no one cares for him, that he has no refuge (Psalm 142:4). Sometimes, we may feel forgotten or abandoned by others, but God never leaves us. Have you ever felt alone, yet found comfort in God’s presence?

  • God Is Our Refuge:
    Despite his despair, David proclaims that God is his portion and refuge (Psalm 142:5). When all else fails, God remains constant. Are you relying on Him as your ultimate source of strength?

  • A Plea for Deliverance:
    David asks God to rescue him from his enemies and bring him out of his prison (Psalm 142:6-7). He trusts that one day he will praise God with the righteous. Even when we don’t see immediate answers, God is working on our behalf. Are you trusting in His deliverance?

Summary Key Points:

  • Bring your struggles to God: He listens to your cries and welcomes your honesty.
  • Even when you feel alone, God is with you: Others may fail you, but God never will.
  • God is our true refuge: He is our security and hope in times of trouble.
  • Trust in His deliverance: No matter how dark it seems, God will bring you through.

Application:
Take time today to pour out your heart before God. Whether you feel overwhelmed, alone, or burdened, trust that He hears you. Let Him be your refuge and your strength, and wait in faith for His deliverance.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come to You with my burdens, knowing that You are my refuge and my portion. In moments of loneliness and despair, remind me that You are always near. Help me trust in Your deliverance, and let my life be a testimony of Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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.

Holy / Set Apart, Hope, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Salvation, Tribulation

A Living Hope in Christ (1 Peter 1:1-9)

What sustains your hope when life gets difficult?

1 Peter 1:1-9 reminds us that as believers, we have a living hope through Jesus Christ. No matter the trials we face, our faith is being refined, and we can rejoice knowing that our salvation is secure in Him.

Key Verse:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” – 1 Peter 1:3 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter wrote this letter to believers scattered throughout the Roman Empire, many of whom were facing persecution for their faith. He encouraged them to stand firm, reminding them that their trials were temporary but their inheritance in Christ was eternal. This passage focuses on the joy of salvation, the refining power of suffering, and the reward of faith that remains steadfast.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 1:1-9

A Living Hope, and a Sure Salvation

      1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen 2according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.

      3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

Reflection on 1 Peter 1:1-9:

  • We Are Chosen and Set Apart:
    Peter begins by addressing believers as those chosen by God and sanctified by the Spirit (1 Peter 1:1-2). Our identity is not based on our circumstances but on God’s calling. Do you live with the confidence that you are chosen by Him?

  • A Living Hope Through Christ’s Resurrection:
    Through Jesus’ resurrection, we have been given a hope that is alive and secure (1 Peter 1:3). This hope is not based on worldly success but on the eternal promise of life with God. Where do you place your hope—on temporary things or on Christ?

  • An Imperishable Inheritance:
    Peter reminds us that our inheritance in heaven is incorruptible and cannot be taken away (1 Peter 1:4). The trials of this world may challenge us, but they cannot diminish our eternal reward. Are you living with an eternal perspective?

  • Trials Refine Our Faith:
    Just as gold is refined by fire, our faith is strengthened through trials (1 Peter 1:6-7). Difficulties are not meaningless; they are opportunities for our faith to grow. How do you respond to hardships—with doubt or with trust in God’s purpose?

  • Rejoicing Even Without Seeing:
    Peter commends those who love and trust Jesus even without having seen Him (1 Peter 1:8). Faith is not based on sight but on belief in the truth of God’s Word. Are you walking by faith, or do you only trust when you can see the outcome?

  • The End Goal: Salvation:
    Our trials are temporary, but the salvation of our souls is eternal (1 Peter 1:9). This is why we endure, pressing forward with joy, knowing that God is faithful. Are you keeping your eyes fixed on the prize of eternity with Christ?

Summary Key Points:

  • We are chosen by God and set apart for His purpose.
  • Our hope is in Christ’s resurrection, not in temporary things.
  • Our inheritance in heaven is secure and cannot be lost.
  • Trials refine our faith and prepare us for eternity.
  • Faith is believing in what we do not see, trusting fully in God.

Application:
Hold on to the living hope that comes from Jesus Christ. When trials come, see them as a refining process that strengthens your faith. Rejoice in your salvation, knowing that your inheritance is secure and your reward in Christ is eternal.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the living hope I have in Christ. Help me to trust in You through every trial, knowing that my faith is being refined. Keep my eyes fixed on eternity, and let my life be a reflection of the joy found in Your salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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, Faith / Trusting God, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Persecution / Glorifying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Seeking God, Tribulation, Wise

Endurance, Wisdom, and Trust in God (James 1:1-18)

How do you respond when trials come your way?

James 1:1-18 reminds us that trials are not obstacles to avoid but opportunities to grow in faith. This passage teaches us to seek wisdom, trust in God’s provision, and stand firm against temptation, knowing that He is faithful.

Key Verse:
“Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” – James 1:2-3 (NASB)

Background Context:
The book of James is a letter filled with practical wisdom for Christian living. Written by James, the brother of Yeshua, this letter was addressed to Jewish believers scattered throughout the world. James begins by encouraging believers to embrace trials as a means of spiritual growth, trust in God’s wisdom, and resist temptation. His words call us to an active and steadfast faith that relies fully on God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

James 1:1-18

Testing Your Faith

      1James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings.

      2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

      5But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

      9But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position; 10and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away. 11For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.

      12Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.

Reflection on James 1:1-18:

  • Trials Strengthen Our Faith:
    James challenges us to “consider it all joy” when we face trials because they develop perseverance and maturity (James 1:2-4). God uses difficulties to refine our character. Are you allowing trials to strengthen your faith rather than weaken it?
  • Seek God’s Wisdom:
    When we lack understanding, we are encouraged to ask God for wisdom, trusting that He gives generously (James 1:5-8). Faith requires us to rely on His guidance rather than doubting His goodness. Are you seeking God’s wisdom in every decision?
  • True Riches Are in Christ:
    James contrasts the fleeting nature of worldly wealth with the eternal security found in God (James 1:9-11). Humility and dependence on Him bring lasting peace. Are you focusing on material success or spiritual growth?
  • Resisting Temptation:
    James makes it clear that God does not tempt us—temptation comes from our own desires, which lead to sin and death (James 1:13-15). Staying rooted in God’s truth protects us from being drawn away. Are you guarding your heart against temptation?
  • God Is the Source of Every Good Gift:
    James reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from God, who never changes (James 1:17-18). His faithfulness gives us confidence to trust Him in all things. Are you recognizing and thanking God for His blessings in your life?

Summary Key Points:

  • Trials Build Endurance: Hardships grow our faith and maturity in Christ.
  • Ask God for Wisdom: He gives generously to those who seek Him in faith.
  • True Wealth Is in God: Earthly riches fade, but a life in Christ endures forever.
  • Resist Temptation: Sin starts in the heart but can be overcome by staying anchored in God’s truth.
  • God Is Faithful and Generous: Every good gift comes from Him, and He never changes.

Application:
Instead of resisting trials, embrace them as opportunities to grow spiritually. Seek God’s wisdom daily and trust in His unchanging nature. Examine your heart for areas of temptation and ask God for strength to resist. Focus on the eternal riches found in Him rather than temporary worldly success.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for using trials to strengthen our faith. Give us wisdom to navigate life’s challenges and help us to trust in Your goodness. Guard our hearts against temptation and teach us to seek lasting treasure in You. May we live with endurance, faith, and gratitude for Your unchanging love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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.

Eternal, Hope, Persecution / Glorifying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Tribulation, Truth

Living with Readiness and Trust Amidst the Signs (Luke 21:5-38)

How can we face an uncertain future with confidence?

Jesus’ words in Luke 21:5-38 remind us of both the signs of the end times and the importance of spiritual readiness, pointing us to a life grounded in faith, trust, and vigilance.

Key Verse: “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” – Luke 21:28 (NASB)

Background Context: In this passage, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the destruction of the temple, the coming trials, and His eventual return. He warns of false teachers, natural disasters, persecution, and signs in the heavens, urging His followers to stay vigilant and rooted in faith. Though these warnings may evoke fear, Jesus emphasizes hope and redemption, encouraging us to trust God’s eternal plan.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 21:5-38

 5And while some were talking about the temple, that it was adorned with beautiful stones and votive gifts, He said, 6“As for these things which you are looking at, the days will come in which there will not be left one stone upon another which will not be torn down.”

      7They questioned Him, saying, “Teacher, when therefore will these things happen? And what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” 8And He said, “See to it that you are not misled; for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not go after them. 9“When you hear of wars and disturbances, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end does not follow immediately.”

Things to Come

     10Then He continued by saying to them, “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, 11and there will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.

      12“But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you to the synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for My name’s sake. 13“It will lead to an opportunity for your testimony. 14“So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves; 15for I will give you utterance and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute. 16“But you will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death, 17and you will be hated by all because of My name. 18“Yet not a hair of your head will perish. 19“By your endurance you will gain your lives.

      20“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that her desolation is near. 21“Then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains, and those who are in the midst of the city must leave, and those who are in the country must not enter the city; 22because these are days of vengeance, so that all things which are written will be fulfilled. 23“Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days; for there will be great distress upon the land and wrath to this people; 24and they will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be led captive into all the nations; and Jerusalem will be trampled under foot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

The Return of Christ

     25“There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, 26men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27“Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory. 28“But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

      29Then He told them a parable: “Behold the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near. 31“So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. 32“Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place. 33“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

      34“Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; 35for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. 36“But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

      37Now during the day He was teaching in the temple, but at evening He would go out and spend the night on the mount that is called Olivet. 38And all the people would get up early in the morning to come to Him in the temple to listen to Him.

Reflection on Luke 21:5-38:

  • Earthly Things Are Temporary: As some marveled at the beauty of the temple, Jesus warned that it would one day be destroyed (Luke 21:6). This foreshadows not only the temple’s destruction but also the fleeting nature of all earthly things. We, too, are called to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our true security lies in God, not in material or temporal things. Are you placing too much value on what is temporary? Reflect on how you can live with a heart fixed on eternal things, investing your time, energy, and resources in God’s kingdom.
  • Warnings Against Deception and Fear: Jesus cautions His followers about false messiahs and warnings of wars, natural disasters, and other troubling events. “See to it that you are not misled…do not go after them” (Luke 21:8). He urges us not to be misled or fearful when facing difficult times. In times of crisis, people often look for quick answers or charismatic leaders, but Jesus reminds us to stay rooted in His truth. Are you discerning in the voices you follow and the information you believe? Ground yourself in God’s Word and His promises to guard against fear and deception.
  • Persecution as an Opportunity for Testimony: Jesus speaks of coming persecution, betrayal, and hatred because of His name (Luke 21:12-19). Yet He also assures us that persecution can be an opportunity for testimony, promising to give us wisdom to answer our accusers. This calls us to live courageously, knowing that God can use even the hardest trials to bring others closer to Him. Are you willing to be a witness, even in times of difficulty? Trust that God will equip you with words and courage when needed.
  • Hope in Christ’s Return: Jesus describes signs in the sun, moon, stars, and the distress of nations, leading to His return in glory (Luke 21:25-27). Instead of fearing these signs, Jesus encourages His followers to “straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). This is a powerful reminder that our hope is not in earthly security but in Christ’s coming kingdom. We can look forward to His return with hope, knowing that our ultimate redemption is near. Is your heart filled with hope in Christ’s return? Let this hope shape your outlook and give you strength to face challenges with confidence.
  • Staying Spiritually Alert: Jesus emphasizes the importance of vigilance, warning us not to let our hearts be “weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life” (Luke 21:34). Instead, He calls us to “keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength” (Luke 21:36). Spiritual vigilance requires intentional living, where we avoid distractions and remain focused on God. We are encouraged to pray for strength and readiness, so we are prepared to stand before the Son of Man. Are there areas of your life that need refocusing? Seek God’s help to remain alert and prayerful, preparing your heart for His return.

Summary Key Points:

  • Value Eternal Things Over the Temporary: Earthly things are passing, so we are called to place our security in God and live with an eternal perspective.
  • Stay Rooted in Truth, Not Fear: Jesus warns of false teachers and crises that can lead to fear. By staying rooted in God’s Word, we avoid deception and find peace.
  • See Trials as Opportunities for Testimony: Persecution offers a chance to testify to God’s truth and love. God will give us the words and courage we need.
  • Live with Hope in Christ’s Return: Rather than fear, we can face the future with hope, knowing that our redemption is near and Christ will come again.
  • Remain Spiritually Vigilant: Jesus calls us to stay alert and pray for strength, resisting distractions that can pull us away from readiness for His return.

Application: Reflect on where your focus lies—are you more invested in earthly security or in God’s eternal promises? Take steps to cultivate a deeper trust in God’s Word and avoid the distractions that can lead to spiritual complacency. If you’re facing challenges, ask God to help you see them as opportunities to testify to His faithfulness. Pray for strength to stay vigilant, preparing your heart daily for Christ’s return.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises and the hope we have in Christ’s return. Help us to keep our focus on what is eternal and to trust You in times of uncertainty. Give us discernment to recognize truth from deception and courage to stand as witnesses, even in difficult times. Keep our hearts vigilant and prayerful, so we may be ready to meet You face-to-face. Thank You for the assurance that our redemption is near. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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.

Faith / Trusting God, Peace / Rest, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Finding Peace Amid Life’s Storms (Luke 8:22-25)

Ever found yourself tossed about in the storms of life, desperately seeking peace amidst the chaos? Luke 8:22-25 offers profound insights into finding tranquility in the midst of life’s tempests.

Reconnect: In the narrative of Luke’s Gospel, Jesus frequently used everyday situations to impart timeless truths about faith and trust in God. Luke 8:22-25 provides a vivid account of Jesus calming a storm while sailing with His disciples, revealing profound lessons about faith and peace amidst adversity.

We see also in scriptures like John 16:33 that Yeshua (Hebrew name of Jesus) warns His disciples that they will have tribulation in this world. It is not “if”, but “when”.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

John 16:33

33“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”

Luke 8:22-25.

One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?” The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”

Summary Key Points:

  • Expecting the Storms: Just as Jesus warned His disciples of the inevitable storms of life, we too must anticipate trials and tribulations. Yet, in the midst of life’s tempests, we can find solace in Christ’s assurance of His presence and sovereignty.
  • Navigating Through Trials: Sometimes, God leads us into the very storms we dread for the purpose of our growth or to fulfill His divine plan. Despite the fierce winds and raging waves, we can trust that He is with us, guiding us through every tumultuous circumstance.
  • Faith Over Fear: Jesus’ response to the disciples’ fear and panic demonstrates the power of unwavering faith. Even in the midst of chaos, He remains unshaken, reminding us to trust Him wholeheartedly and not succumb to fear.
  • Recognizing His Presence: Amid life’s storms, it’s easy to forget that Jesus is with us in the boat. Yet, He is ever-present, ready to calm our fears and bring peace to our troubled hearts when we call upon Him in faith.

Call to Action:

  • Embrace Unwavering Faith: Let us cultivate a steadfast faith that anchors us amidst life’s storms, trusting in God’s sovereignty and provision even when circumstances seem dire.
  • Seek His Peace: In moments of turmoil and uncertainty, turn to Jesus as the source of true peace. Through prayer and meditation on God’s Word, invite His calming presence into your life, knowing that He is always near.

As we journey through life’s storms, may we find solace in the unwavering presence of Jesus Christ, our ever-present refuge and strength. Let us anchor our faith in His promises, trusting that He will guide us safely through every trial and tempest we encounter.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your constant presence and unwavering love, especially in the midst of life’s storms. Grant us the faith to trust You wholeheartedly, knowing that You are with us in every trial and tribulation. May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.

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, Discipline / Guidance From God, Kindness / Gentleness, Seeking God, Tribulation

Grieving in Silence (Lamentations 2)

Have you ever found yourself speechless in the face of overwhelming tragedy, unable to find the words to express your grief?

In Lamentations 2, we enter into the profound silence that follows the devastation of Jerusalem, as the city’s inhabitants grapple with the unimaginable horrors that have befallen them. Join us as we journey through this poignant chapter, wrestling with the weight of sorrow and seeking solace amidst the silence.

Reconnect: As we delve into Lamentations 2, we are confronted with the stark reality of Jerusalem’s destruction and the profound silence that envelops the city in its aftermath. The once-vibrant metropolis now lies in ruins, its streets deserted and its people left to grapple with the agony of loss and despair. In this chapter, we encounter themes of mourning, lamentation, and the haunting echoes of a once-thriving city now reduced to silence.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Lamentations 2

God’s Anger over Israel

1How the Lord has covered the daughter of Zion
With a cloud in His anger!
He has cast from heaven to earth
The glory of Israel,
And has not remembered His footstool
In the day of His anger.

      2The Lord has swallowed up; He has not spared
All the habitations of Jacob.
In His wrath He has thrown down
The strongholds of the daughter of Judah;
He has brought them down to the ground;
He has profaned the kingdom and its princes.

      3In fierce anger He has cut off
All the strength of Israel;
He has drawn back His right hand
From before the enemy.
And He has burned in Jacob like a flaming fire
Consuming round about.

      4He has bent His bow like an enemy;
He has set His right hand like an adversary
And slain all that were pleasant to the eye;
In the tent of the daughter of Zion
He has poured out His wrath like fire.

      5The Lord has become like an enemy.
He has swallowed up Israel;
He has swallowed up all its palaces,
He has destroyed its strongholds
And multiplied in the daughter of Judah
Mourning and moaning.

      6And He has violently treated His tabernacle like a garden booth;
He has destroyed His appointed meeting place.
The LORD has caused to be forgotten
The appointed feast and sabbath in Zion,
And He has despised king and priest
In the indignation of His anger.

      7The Lord has rejected His altar,
He has abandoned His sanctuary;
He has delivered into the hand of the enemy
The walls of her palaces.
They have made a noise in the house of the LORD
As in the day of an appointed feast.

      8The LORD determined to destroy
The wall of the daughter of Zion.
He has stretched out a line,
He has not restrained His hand from destroying,
And He has caused rampart and wall to lament;
They have languished together.

      9Her gates have sunk into the ground,
He has destroyed and broken her bars.
Her king and her princes are among the nations;
The law is no more.
Also, her prophets find
No vision from the LORD.

      10The elders of the daughter of Zion
Sit on the ground, they are silent.
They have thrown dust on their heads;
They have girded themselves with sackcloth.
The virgins of Jerusalem
Have bowed their heads to the ground.

      11My eyes fail because of tears,
My spirit is greatly troubled;
My heart is poured out on the earth
Because of the destruction of the daughter of my people,
When little ones and infants faint
In the streets of the city.

      12They say to their mothers,
“Where is grain and wine?”
As they faint like a wounded man
In the streets of the city,
As their life is poured out
On their mothers’ bosom.

      13How shall I admonish you?
To what shall I compare you,
O daughter of Jerusalem?
To what shall I liken you as I comfort you,
O virgin daughter of Zion?
For your ruin is as vast as the sea;
Who can heal you?

      14Your prophets have seen for you
False and foolish visions;
And they have not exposed your iniquity
So as to restore you from captivity,
But they have seen for you false and misleading oracles.

      15All who pass along the way
Clap their hands in derision at you;
They hiss and shake their heads
At the daughter of Jerusalem,
“Is this the city of which they said,
‘The perfection of beauty,
A joy to all the earth’?”

      16All your enemies
Have opened their mouths wide against you;
They hiss and gnash their teeth.
They say, “We have swallowed her up!
Surely this is the day for which we waited;
We have reached it, we have seen it.”

      17The LORD has done what He purposed;
He has accomplished His word
Which He commanded from days of old.
He has thrown down without sparing,
And He has caused the enemy to rejoice over you;
He has exalted the might of your adversaries.

      18Their heart cried out to the Lord,
“O wall of the daughter of Zion,
Let your tears run down like a river day and night;
Give yourself no relief,
Let your eyes have no rest.

      19“Arise, cry aloud in the night
At the beginning of the night watches;
Pour out your heart like water
Before the presence of the Lord;
Lift up your hands to Him
For the life of your little ones
Who are faint because of hunger
At the head of every street.”

      20See, O LORD, and look!
With whom have You dealt thus?
Should women eat their offspring,
The little ones who were born healthy?
Should priest and prophet be slain
In the sanctuary of the Lord?

      21On the ground in the streets
Lie young and old;
My virgins and my young men
Have fallen by the sword.
You have slain them in the day of Your anger,
You have slaughtered, not sparing.

      22You called as in the day of an appointed feast
My terrors on every side;
And there was no one who escaped or survived
In the day of the LORD’S anger.
Those whom I bore and reared,
My enemy annihilated them.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A City Laid Waste: Lamentations 2 paints a harrowing picture of Jerusalem’s devastation, describing the city as a desolate wasteland laid waste by the hand of God. The once-glorious capital now lies in ruins, its walls breached, its temple defiled, and its people left to wander the streets in search of solace.
  2. Divine Judgment and Desolation: The destruction of Jerusalem is seen as a manifestation of divine judgment, a consequence of the city’s rebellion and sin. God’s wrath is depicted as fierce and relentless, sparing no one in its path as it lays waste to the once-proud city and its inhabitants.
  3. The Silence of Grief: Amidst the ruins of Jerusalem, we encounter the profound silence of grief, as the city’s inhabitants are left speechless in the face of unimaginable tragedy. The streets that once echoed with the sounds of life and laughter now lie silent, haunted by the memories of what once was.

Call to Action:

  1. Sit in Silence and Lament: Take time to sit in silence and lament the brokenness and suffering in our world, acknowledging the pain and sorrow that exists both individually and collectively. Allow yourself to grieve honestly and openly, knowing that God hears the cries of the brokenhearted and offers comfort in times of distress.
  2. Seek God’s Presence in the Silence: In the midst of the silence, seek God’s presence and companionship, knowing that He is near to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Find solace in His promises of comfort and restoration, trusting that He is able to bring beauty from ashes and joy from mourning.
  3. Bear Witness to the Suffering of Others: As you lament the brokenness in our world, commit to bearing witness to the suffering of others and extending compassion and support wherever it is needed. Stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized and oppressed, advocating for justice and mercy in the midst of despair.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, mourning the brokenness and suffering in our world. As we sit in silence and lament, we pray for Your presence to surround us, bringing comfort and hope in the midst of despair. Help us to bear witness to the suffering of others, extending Your love and compassion to all who are in need. Amen.

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.

All Knowing, All Powerful / King of All, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Humility, Repenting from Sin, Tribulation, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Reflections on Job’s Journey: Lessons from Job 42

Have you ever found yourself at the end of a long and arduous journey, looking back on the challenges faced and the lessons learned along the way?

Job’s final chapter invites us to reflect on his remarkable journey of faith and resilience.

Reconnect: Job 42 marks the culmination of Job’s story, where he humbly submits to God’s sovereignty and receives restoration and blessing. As we conclude our exploration of Job’s narrative, let us glean wisdom from the profound truths unveiled throughout this book.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 42

Job’s Confession

      1Then Job answered the LORD and said,

      2“I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.

      3‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’
“Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand,
Things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.”

      4‘Hear, now, and I will speak;
I will ask You, and You instruct me.’

      5“I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear;
But now my eye sees You;

      6Therefore I retract,
And I repent in dust and ashes.”

God Displeased with Job’s Friends

      7It came about after the LORD had spoken these words to Job, that the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is kindled against you and against your two friends, because you have not spoken of Me what is right as My servant Job has. 8“Now therefore, take for yourselves seven bulls and seven rams, and go to My servant Job, and offer up a burnt offering for yourselves, and My servant Job will pray for you. For I will accept him so that I may not do with you according to your folly, because you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has.” 9So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went and did as the LORD told them; and the LORD accepted Job.

God Restores Job’s Fortunes

      10The LORD restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends, and the LORD increased all that Job had twofold. 11Then all his brothers and all his sisters and all who had known him before came to him, and they ate bread with him in his house; and they consoled him and comforted him for all the adversities that the LORD had brought on him. And each one gave him one piece of money, and each a ring of gold. 12The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning; and he had 14,000 sheep and 6,000 camels and 1,000 yoke of oxen and 1,000 female donkeys. 13He had seven sons and three daughters. 14He named the first Jemimah, and the second Keziah, and the third Keren-happuch. 15In all the land no women were found so fair as Job’s daughters; and their father gave them inheritance among their brothers. 16After this, Job lived 140 years, and saw his sons and his grandsons, four generations. 17And Job died, an old man and full of days.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Humble Acknowledgment: In this final chapter, Job responds to God’s inquiry with humility and reverence, acknowledging the limitations of his understanding and the majesty of God’s power. He confesses his previous lack of knowledge and repents in dust and ashes before the Almighty.
  2. God’s Restoration and Blessing: Despite Job’s suffering and questioning, God graciously restores him, doubling his previous blessings and granting him a long life filled with prosperity and familial joy. This serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and his ability to redeem even the most dire circumstances.
  3. Reflections on Job’s Journey: Job’s story is one of profound faith tested by adversity, yet ultimately strengthened through perseverance and trust in God’s sovereignty. Throughout the book, we witness Job’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and his relentless pursuit of understanding amidst profound suffering.
  4. Lessons from Job’s Experience: As we reflect on Job’s journey, we are reminded of the importance of faithfulness in the face of adversity, the necessity of humility before God’s wisdom, and the assurance of God’s faithfulness even in the midst of life’s greatest trials.

Call to Action: Let us take to heart the lessons learned from Job’s experience by:

  • Cultivating unwavering faith and trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the midst of life’s greatest challenges.
  • Embracing humility and repentance before God, recognizing our finite understanding in light of His infinite wisdom.
  • Seeking restoration and blessing through faithful obedience to God’s will, knowing that He is faithful to redeem and restore those who trust in Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the profound truths unveiled through the story of Job. Grant us the faith and humility to trust in Your sovereignty, even in the midst of life’s trials. May we find strength and restoration in Your presence, knowing that You are faithful to sustain us through every season of life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Humble Acknowledgment: In this final chapter, Job responds to God’s inquiry with humility and reverence, acknowledging the limitations of his understanding and the majesty of God’s power. He confesses his previous lack of knowledge and repents in dust and ashes before the Almighty.
  2. God’s Restoration and Blessing: Despite Job’s suffering and questioning, God graciously restores him, doubling his previous blessings and granting him a long life filled with prosperity and familial joy. This serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and his ability to redeem even the most dire circumstances.
  3. Reflections on Job’s Journey: Job’s story is one of profound faith tested by adversity, yet ultimately strengthened through perseverance and trust in God’s sovereignty. Throughout the book, we witness Job’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and his relentless pursuit of understanding amidst profound suffering.
  4. Lessons from Job’s Experience: As we reflect on Job’s journey, we are reminded of the importance of faithfulness in the face of adversity, the necessity of humility before God’s wisdom, and the assurance of God’s faithfulness even in the midst of life’s greatest trials.

Call to Action: Let us take to heart the lessons learned from Job’s experience by:

  • Cultivating unwavering faith and trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the midst of life’s greatest challenges.
  • Embracing humility and repentance before God, recognizing our finite understanding in light of His infinite wisdom.
  • Seeking restoration and blessing through faithful obedience to God’s will, knowing that He is faithful to redeem and restore those who trust in Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the profound truths unveiled through the story of Job. Grant us the faith and humility to trust in Your sovereignty, even in the midst of life’s trials. May we find strength and restoration in Your presence, knowing that You are faithful to sustain us through every season of life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

 

All Powerful / King of All, Fear / Reverence for God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Unfathomable Power of God (Job 41)

Have you ever been confronted with the incomprehensible power and majesty of God, leaving you humbled by the realization of His unfathomable greatness?

In Job 41, we encounter God’s vivid description of the Leviathan, a mighty creature that serves as a powerful symbol of His sovereignty over all creation.

Reconnect: Job’s journey through suffering and questioning leads him to a profound encounter with God’s presence and power. In the midst of his anguish, God reveals Himself in all His splendor, challenging Job to consider the mysteries of His creation and the limits of human understanding and embrace humility before God.

(Summarized and continued  after scripture)

Job 41

God’s Power Shown in Creatures

1“Can you draw out Leviathan with a fishhook?
Or press down his tongue with a cord?

      2“Can you put a rope in his nose
Or pierce his jaw with a hook?

      3“Will he make many supplications to you,
Or will he speak to you soft words?

      4“Will he make a covenant with you?
Will you take him for a servant forever?

      5“Will you play with him as with a bird,
Or will you bind him for your maidens?

      6“Will the traders bargain over him?
Will they divide him among the merchants?

      7“Can you fill his skin with harpoons,
Or his head with fishing spears?

      8“Lay your hand on him;
Remember the battle; you will not do it again!

      9“Behold, your expectation is false;
Will you be laid low even at the sight of him?

      10“No one is so fierce that he dares to arouse him;
Who then is he that can stand before Me?

      11“Who has given to Me that I should repay him?
Whatever is under the whole heaven is Mine.

      12“I will not keep silence concerning his limbs,
Or his mighty strength, or his orderly frame.

      13“Who can strip off his outer armor?
Who can come within his double mail?

      14“Who can open the doors of his face?
Around his teeth there is terror.

      15“His strong scales are his pride,
Shut up as with a tight seal.

      16“One is so near to another
That no air can come between them.

      17“They are joined one to another;
They clasp each other and cannot be separated.

      18“His sneezes flash forth light,
And his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning.

      19“Out of his mouth go burning torches;
Sparks of fire leap forth.

      20“Out of his nostrils smoke goes forth
As from a boiling pot and burning rushes.

      21“His breath kindles coals,
And a flame goes forth from his mouth.

      22“In his neck lodges strength,
And dismay leaps before him.

      23“The folds of his flesh are joined together,
Firm on him and immovable.

      24“His heart is as hard as a stone,
Even as hard as a lower millstone.

      25“When he raises himself up, the mighty fear;
Because of the crashing they are bewildered.

      26“The sword that reaches him cannot avail,
Nor the spear, the dart or the javelin.

      27“He regards iron as straw,
Bronze as rotten wood.

      28“The arrow cannot make him flee;
Slingstones are turned into stubble for him.

      29“Clubs are regarded as stubble;
He laughs at the rattling of the javelin.

      30“His underparts are like sharp potsherds;
He spreads out like a threshing sledge on the mire.

      31“He makes the depths boil like a pot;
He makes the sea like a jar of ointment.

      32“Behind him he makes a wake to shine;
One would think the deep to be gray-haired.

      33“Nothing on earth is like him,
One made without fear.

      34“He looks on everything that is high;
He is king over all the sons of pride.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Description of Leviathan: In Job 41, God invites Job to consider the Leviathan, a fearsome creature of the deep. Through vivid imagery and detailed description, God illustrates the Leviathan’s strength, invincibility, and untamable nature, emphasizing His authority over even the most formidable forces of the natural world.
  2. Leviathan as a Symbol of God’s Sovereignty: Scholars interpret the Leviathan as a symbolic representation of God’s unrivaled power and sovereignty. Just as the Leviathan is beyond human control, so too is God beyond the grasp of human comprehension. His ways are higher than ours, and His power knows no bounds.
  3. Job’s Response: Faced with God’s vivid depiction of the Leviathan and the revelation of His incomprehensible greatness, Job responds with humility and reverence. He acknowledges the limits of his understanding and surrenders to God’s sovereignty, recognizing that only God holds the answers to life’s deepest mysteries.

Call to Action: As we reflect on the portrayal of the Leviathan in Job 41, let us:

  1. Embrace Humility: Like Job, let us humbly acknowledge the limits of our understanding and the unfathomable greatness of God. May we approach Him with reverence and awe, recognizing His sovereignty over all creation.
  2. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: In moments of uncertainty and doubt, let us trust in the sovereignty of God, knowing that He is in control of all things. May we find peace in His unfailing power and rest in the assurance of His perfect plan.
  3. Stand in Awe: As we contemplate the majesty of God revealed in Job 41, let us stand in awe of His greatness and offer Him our heartfelt worship and praise.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your unfathomable power and sovereignty revealed in the portrayal of the Leviathan. Help us to embrace humility, trust in Your sovereignty, and stand in reverent awe of Your greatness. May our lives bring glory to Your name, now and forevermore. Amen.

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.

All Knowing, All Powerful / King of All, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Fear / Reverence for God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Humility, Tribulation, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Reflecting on God’s Sovereign Majesty (Job 40)

Have you ever stood in awe of the majestic power and sovereignty of God, realizing the vastness of His wisdom and might compared to our limited understanding?

In Job 40, we are confronted with the incomparable greatness of God as He reveals Himself to Job in a whirlwind, inviting us to humbly acknowledge His unmatched authority over all creation.

Reconnect: In the book of Job, we witness a profound dialogue between Job, a righteous man who faces immense suffering, and his friends who attempt to make sense of his plight. As the debate unfolds, God intervenes to offer His perspective on the mysteries of His ways and the universe He has created.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 40

Job: What Can I Say?

      1Then the LORD said to Job,

      2“Will the faultfinder contend with the Almighty?
Let him who reproves God answer it.”

      3Then Job answered the LORD and said,

      4“Behold, I am insignificant; what can I reply to You?
I lay my hand on my mouth.

      5“Once I have spoken, and I will not answer;
Even twice, and I will add nothing more.”

God Questions Job

      6Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm and said,

      7“Now gird up your loins like a man;
I will ask you, and you instruct Me.

      8“Will you really annul My judgment?
Will you condemn Me that you may be justified?

      9“Or do you have an arm like God,
And can you thunder with a voice like His?

      10“Adorn yourself with eminence and dignity,
And clothe yourself with honor and majesty.

      11“Pour out the overflowings of your anger,
And look on everyone who is proud, and make him low.

      12“Look on everyone who is proud, and humble him,
And tread down the wicked where they stand.

      13“Hide them in the dust together;
Bind them in the hidden place.

      14“Then I will also confess to you,
That your own right hand can save you.

God’s Power Shown in Creatures

15“Behold now, Behemoth, which I made as well as you;
He eats grass like an ox.

      16“Behold now, his strength in his loins
And his power in the muscles of his belly.

      17“He bends his tail like a cedar;
The sinews of his thighs are knit together.

      18“His bones are tubes of bronze;
His limbs are like bars of iron.

      19“He is the first of the ways of God;
Let his maker bring near his sword.

      20“Surely the mountains bring him food,
And all the beasts of the field play there.

      21“Under the lotus plants he lies down,
In the covert of the reeds and the marsh.

      22“The lotus plants cover him with shade;
The willows of the brook surround him.

      23“If a river rages, he is not alarmed;
He is confident, though the Jordan rushes to his mouth.

      24“Can anyone capture him when he is on watch,
With barbs can anyone pierce his nose?

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Challenge to Job: In Job 40, God addresses Job out of the whirlwind, challenging him to brace himself like a man and prepare to answer His questions. God’s rhetorical questions serve to remind Job of his finite understanding and the limitations of human wisdom compared to the boundless wisdom of the Creator.
  2. Behemoth: As God continues to speak, He draws Job’s attention to the Behemoth, a mighty creature of His creation. Scholars interpret Behemoth as a symbol of God’s sovereignty over the natural world, representing His authority and power to govern all creatures, great and small.
  3. Job’s Response: Faced with God’s awe-inspiring presence and the revelation of His sovereignty, Job responds with humility and reverence. He acknowledges his unworthiness to question God’s ways and submits to His divine authority, recognizing that only God holds the answers to life’s mysteries.

Call to Action: As we contemplate the revelations found in Job 40, let us:

  1. Embrace Humility: Like Job, let us humbly acknowledge our limited understanding and submit to God’s sovereignty over our lives. May we recognize that His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are beyond our comprehension.
  2. Trust in God’s Wisdom: In moments of uncertainty and doubt, let us trust in the wisdom and providence of God, knowing that He holds the universe in His hands and works all things according to His perfect plan.
  3. Stand in Awe: As we reflect on the majesty of God revealed in Job 40, let us stand in awe of His greatness and offer Him our heartfelt worship and praise.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your sovereign majesty revealed in the whirlwind of Job 40. Help us to embrace humility, trust in Your wisdom, and stand in reverent awe of Your greatness. May our lives bring glory to Your name, now and forevermore. Amen.

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.