Category Archives: Tribulation

Depression / Discouragement, Seeking God, Tribulation

Wrestling with the Fleeting Nature of Life and the Weight of Suffering (Job 7)

Step into the shadows of Job 7, where Job’s lament unfolds as he wrestles with the fleeting nature of life and the heavy burden of unrelenting suffering.

Join us on a contemplative journey through this chapter as we explore the profound reflections of a soul in anguish, grappling with the brevity of existence and the relentless weight of his afflictions.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Job 7

Job’s Life Seems Futile

1“Is not man forced to labor on earth,
And are not his days like the days of a hired man?

      2“As a slave who pants for the shade,
And as a hired man who eagerly waits for his wages,

      3So am I allotted months of vanity,
And nights of trouble are appointed me.

      4“When I lie down I say,
‘When shall I arise?’
But the night continues,
And I am continually tossing until dawn.

      5“My flesh is clothed with worms and a crust of dirt,
My skin hardens and runs.

      6“My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle,
And come to an end without hope.

      7“Remember that my life is but breath;
My eye will not again see good.

      8“The eye of him who sees me will behold me no longer;
Your eyes will be on me, but I will not be.

      9“When a cloud vanishes, it is gone,
So he who goes down to Sheol does not come up.

      10“He will not return again to his house,
Nor will his place know him anymore.

      11“Therefore I will not restrain my mouth;
I will speak in the anguish of my spirit,
I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.

      12“Am I the sea, or the sea monster,
That You set a guard over me?

      13“If I say, ‘My bed will comfort me,
My couch will ease my complaint,’

      14Then You frighten me with dreams
And terrify me by visions;

      15So that my soul would choose suffocation,
Death rather than my pains.

      16“I waste away; I will not live forever.
Leave me alone, for my days are but a breath.

      17“What is man that You magnify him,
And that You are concerned about him,

      18That You examine him every morning
And try him every moment?

      19“Will You never turn Your gaze away from me,
Nor let me alone until I swallow my spittle?

      20“Have I sinned? What have I done to You,
O watcher of men?
Why have You set me as Your target,
So that I am a burden to myself?

      21“Why then do You not pardon my transgression
And take away my iniquity?
For now I will lie down in the dust;
And You will seek me, but I will not be.”

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Job’s Lament on the Brevity of Life: Job 7 opens with Job expressing the brevity of human life, drawing attention to the fleeting nature of our days. He likens his own existence to that of a hired servant, highlighting the transitory essence of our earthly journey.
  2. The Restlessness of Job’s Nights: Job vividly describes the restless nights he endures, filled with turmoil and agony. His words paint a poignant picture of the sleepless anguish that accompanies profound suffering, adding another layer to his already heavy burden.
  3. The Weight of Suffering: Job’s lament echoes with the weight of his suffering, emphasizing the unrelenting nature of his afflictions. He describes his flesh as clothed with worms and dust, portraying the physical toll of his pain and the depth of his distress.
  4. Job’s Plea for Relief: In the midst of his anguish, Job pleads for relief, expressing a longing for the night to end and for the possibility of finding solace even in the realm of death. This poignant plea unveils the desperation of a soul yearning for respite from its unceasing torment.

As we delve into the poignant verses of Job 7, let’s reflect on the profound reflections of a soul in anguish and the weight of suffering that Job grapples with.

How do we navigate the brevity of life and the heavy burdens that afflict us?

Share your insights on the restless nights and the plea for relief that resonate through this chapter.

Job 7 invites us to confront the fleeting nature of our days and consider the weight of our own sufferings, encouraging us to find solace and meaning even in the midst of profound trials.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the enduring wisdom woven into this chapter and how it may help us face our struggles.

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

John

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

Wrestling with Despair and the Quest for Understanding (Job 6)

Enter the depths of Job 6, where Job, in the midst of profound suffering, wrestles with despair while responding to the accusations of his friends.

Join us on a contemplative journey through this chapter as we explore the complexities of human suffering, the cries of a distressed soul, and the yearning for understanding in the face of life’s deepest trials, all set against the backdrop of Job’s desperate response to the accusations leveled against him.

(Summarized and continued after scripture.)

Job 6

Job’s Friends Are No Help

      1Then Job answered,

      2“Oh that my grief were actually weighed
And laid in the balances together with my calamity!

      3“For then it would be heavier than the sand of the seas;
Therefore my words have been rash.

      4“For the arrows of the Almighty are within me,
Their poison my spirit drinks;
The terrors of God are arrayed against me.

      5“Does the wild donkey bray over his grass,
Or does the ox low over his fodder?

      6“Can something tasteless be eaten without salt,
Or is there any taste in the white of an egg?

      7“My soul refuses to touch them;
They are like loathsome food to me.

      8“Oh that my request might come to pass,
And that God would grant my longing!

      9“Would that God were willing to crush me,
That He would loose His hand and cut me off!

      10“But it is still my consolation,
And I rejoice in unsparing pain,
That I have not denied the words of the Holy One.

      11“What is my strength, that I should wait?
And what is my end, that I should endure?

      12“Is my strength the strength of stones,
Or is my flesh bronze?

      13“Is it that my help is not within me,
And that deliverance is driven from me?

      14“For the despairing man there should be kindness from his friend;
So that he does not forsake the fear of the Almighty.

      15“My brothers have acted deceitfully like a wadi,
Like the torrents of wadis which vanish,

      16Which are turbid because of ice
And into which the snow melts.

      17“When they become waterless, they are silent,
When it is hot, they vanish from their place.

      18“The paths of their course wind along,
They go up into nothing and perish.

      19“The caravans of Tema looked,
The travelers of Sheba hoped for them.

      20“They were disappointed for they had trusted,
They came there and were confounded.

      21“Indeed, you have now become such,
You see a terror and are afraid.

      22“Have I said, ‘Give me something,’
Or, ‘Offer a bribe for me from your wealth,’

      23Or, ‘Deliver me from the hand of the adversary,’
Or, ‘Redeem me from the hand of the tyrants’?

      24“Teach me, and I will be silent;
And show me how I have erred.

      25“How painful are honest words!
But what does your argument prove?

      26“Do you intend to reprove my words,
When the words of one in despair belong to the wind?

      27“You would even cast lots for the orphans
And barter over your friend.

      28“Now please look at me,
And see if I lie to your face.

      29“Desist now, let there be no injustice;
Even desist, my righteousness is yet in it.

      30“Is there injustice on my tongue?
Cannot my palate discern calamities?

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Job’s Cry of Despair: Job 6 opens with Job expressing the depths of his despair, overwhelmed by the weight of his afflictions. His words paint a vivid picture of a soul in anguish, grappling with the magnitude of his suffering.
  2. The Bitterness of Job’s Complaint: Job’s words reflect a profound bitterness as he contemplates the severity of his afflictions. This chapter provides a window into the raw and unfiltered expressions of a soul navigating the harsh realities of pain and loss, exacerbated by the accusations from his friends.
  3. The Longing for Death: In his distress, Job articulates a longing for death as a release from his suffering. This theme invites contemplation on the nature of human suffering and the desperation that can accompany profound trials, especially when compounded by the accusations of wrongdoing.
  4. Job’s Quest for Understanding: Despite the intensity of his despair, Job’s words also reveal a deep yearning for understanding. He grapples with the mystery of his suffering, seeking answers and a sense of purpose in the midst of his profound pain, all while responding to the accusations that his friends have directed at him.

As we navigate the soul-stirring verses of Job 6, let’s reflect on the complexities of human suffering and the profound quest for understanding in the face of despair, particularly when accusations are added to the burden.

How do we grapple with our own moments of despair and accusations from others?

Share your insights on the raw expressions of anguish and the longing for understanding that echo through this chapter.

Job 6 invites us to approach our own struggles with honesty and to seek understanding, even in the darkest moments of our lives, especially when facing accusations from those who should offer support.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the profound lessons embedded in this chapter.

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

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.

Encouragement, Help / Serve Others, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Love, Tribulation

Strengthening Bonds of Faith Amidst Trials (1 Thessalonians 3)

Join us in the heartening journey through 1 Thessalonians 3, where the apostle Paul shares profound insights on fortifying the bonds of faith during times of trial. As we explore this chapter, discover the enduring themes of encouragement, steadfastness, and the transformative power of mutual support in the face of life’s challenges.

In 1 Thessalonians 2, Paul expressed deep love for the Thessalonian believers. He had a strong desire to revisit them but shares that Satan hindered his plans.

However, in Chapter 3, we witness Paul’s unwavering commitment as he sends Timothy in his place. This selfless act showcases Paul’s dedication to staying connected with those he shared the gospel with. Instead of keeping Timothy by his side, Paul prioritizes the well-being of others over his own, setting a powerful example of putting the needs of fellow believers first. It’s a beautiful illustration of believers collaborating to achieve what one, even someone as influential as Paul, cannot achieve alone.

(Continued and summarized after the scripture.)

1 Thessalonians 3

Encouragement of Timothy’s Visit

      1Therefore when we could endure it no longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens alone, 2and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith, 3so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this. 4For indeed when we were with you, we kept telling you in advance that we were going to suffer affliction; and so it came to pass, as you know. 5For this reason, when I could endure it no longer, I also sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter might have tempted you, and our labor would be in vain.

      6But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always think kindly of us, longing to see us just as we also long to see you, 7for this reason, brethren, in all our distress and affliction we were comforted about you through your faith; 8for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord. 9For what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account, 10as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith?

      11Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; 12and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; 13so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Paul’s Concern for the Thessalonians: In 1 Thessalonians 3, Paul expresses deep concern for the faith of the Thessalonian believers amidst the trials they are facing. His desire to strengthen and encourage them becomes a central theme of this chapter.
  2. Sending Timothy as a Source of Encouragement: To provide support and strengthen the Thessalonians’ faith, Paul sends Timothy to them. The chapter unfolds as a testament to the significance of sending encouraging figures during challenging seasons, highlighting the impact of such gestures on the body of believers.
  3. Enduring Trials with Steadfastness: Paul acknowledges the reality of trials and afflictions but emphasizes the importance of enduring them with steadfastness and faith. The chapter inspires reflection on the transformative power of resilience and trust in God during difficult times.
  4. The Joy of Mutual Encouragement: Both Paul and the Thessalonians find joy in the mutual encouragement they receive. This reciprocal relationship underscores the communal nature of faith and the strength that emerges when believers support each other through trials.
  5. Fervent Prayers for Spiritual Growth: Verses 11-13 highlight Paul’s fervent prayers for the Thessalonians, expressing his earnest desire to see them again and to contribute to their spiritual growth. This underscores the importance of intercessory prayer within the faith community, recognizing the role it plays in sustaining and nurturing believers through various seasons of life.

As we immerse ourselves in the timeless wisdom of 1 Thessalonians 3, let’s reflect on the role of encouragement, steadfastness, mutual support, and fervent prayers in our own faith journeys.

How can we strengthen the bonds of faith within our communities during times of trial?

Share your thoughts on the transformative power of mutual support and the joy found in encouraging one another.

1 Thessalonians 3 calls us to be sources of strength and encouragement, fostering a community where faith thrives even amidst life’s challenges.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the enduring lessons woven into this chapter.

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

John

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, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Protector / Deliverer, Seeking God, Tribulation

Nurture Hope and Trust (in God) in the Face of Adversity (Job 5)

Embark on a quest for wisdom in the midst of adversity as we delve into Job 5. Eliphaz, Job’s friend, continues to share insights, offering a perspective on finding solace and understanding in times of trial. Join us on a contemplative journey through this chapter as we explore the enduring quest for wisdom and the age-old question of how to navigate the storms of life.

(Summarized and continued after scripture.)

Job 5

God Is Just

1“Call now, is there anyone who will answer you?
And to which of the holy ones will you turn?

      2“For anger slays the foolish man,
And jealousy kills the simple.

      3“I have seen the foolish taking root,
And I cursed his abode immediately.

      4“His sons are far from safety,
They are even oppressed in the gate,
And there is no deliverer.

      5“His harvest the hungry devour
And take it to a place of thorns,
And the schemer is eager for their wealth.

      6“For affliction does not come from the dust,
Nor does trouble sprout from the ground,

      7For man is born for trouble,
As sparks fly upward.

      8“But as for me, I would seek God,
And I would place my cause before God;

      9Who does great and unsearchable things,
Wonders without number.

      10“He gives rain on the earth
And sends water on the fields,

      11So that He sets on high those who are lowly,
And those who mourn are lifted to safety.

      12“He frustrates the plotting of the shrewd,
So that their hands cannot attain success.

      13“He captures the wise by their own shrewdness,
And the advice of the cunning is quickly thwarted.

      14“By day they meet with darkness,
And grope at noon as in the night.

      15“But He saves from the sword of their mouth,
And the poor from the hand of the mighty.

      16“So the helpless has hope,
And unrighteousness must shut its mouth.

      17“Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves,
So do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.

      18“For He inflicts pain, and gives relief;
He wounds, and His hands also heal.

      19“From six troubles He will deliver you,
Even in seven evil will not touch you.

      20“In famine He will redeem you from death,
And in war from the power of the sword.

      21“You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue,
And you will not be afraid of violence when it comes.

      22“You will laugh at violence and famine,
And you will not be afraid of wild beasts.

      23“For you will be in league with the stones of the field,
And the beasts of the field will be at peace with you.

      24“You will know that your tent is secure,
For you will visit your abode and fear no loss.

      25“You will know also that your descendants will be many,
And your offspring as the grass of the earth.

      26“You will come to the grave in full vigor,
Like the stacking of grain in its season.

      27“Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is.
Hear it, and know for yourself.”

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Call to Seek God’s Wisdom: Job 5 opens with Eliphaz encouraging Job to seek God’s wisdom in the face of adversity. Eliphaz believes that turning to the Almighty is the key to finding understanding and solace in times of trouble.
  2. The Concept of Divine Discipline: Eliphaz introduces the idea that suffering may be a form of divine discipline, suggesting that God uses challenges to correct and guide His people. This perspective reflects a common theological understanding of the time.
  3. God’s Unfathomable Ways: Eliphaz emphasizes the incomprehensibility of God’s ways, suggesting that humans cannot fully understand the intricacies of divine actions. The chapter invites contemplation on the limits of human understanding when confronted with the mysteries of life.
  4. The Promise of Restoration: Amidst discussions of discipline and the inscrutable nature of God’s ways, Eliphaz concludes with a hopeful note, asserting that those who seek God’s wisdom and endure trials with patience will ultimately experience restoration and blessings.

As we navigate the timeless wisdom of Job 5, let’s reflect on the quest for understanding and solace in the face of life’s challenges.

How do we approach adversity with a seeking heart, and what role does divine wisdom play in our lives?

Share your thoughts on the concept of divine discipline and the promise of restoration.

Job 5 invites us to embrace a humble search for wisdom, acknowledging the limits of our understanding while trusting in the goodness of a God whose ways surpass our comprehension.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the enduring truths embedded in this chapter.

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

John

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, Wise

Wrestling with Comforting Words in Times of Great Suffering (Job 4)

Enter the dialogue of Job 4, where Eliphaz, a friend of Job, attempts to offer comfort amid profound suffering.

Join us on a contemplative journey through this chapter as we explore the complexities of well-intentioned advice and the unraveling wisdom that seeks to make sense of life’s deepest trials.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Job 4

Eliphaz: Innocent Do Not Suffer

      1Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered,

      2“If one ventures a word with you, will you become impatient?
But who can refrain from speaking?

      3“Behold you have admonished many,
And you have strengthened weak hands.

      4“Your words have helped the tottering to stand,
And you have strengthened feeble knees.

      5“But now it has come to you, and you are impatient;
It touches you, and you are dismayed.

      6“Is not your fear of God your confidence,
And the integrity of your ways your hope?

      7“Remember now, who ever perished being innocent?
Or where were the upright destroyed?

      8“According to what I have seen, those who plow iniquity
And those who sow trouble harvest it.

      9“By the breath of God they perish,
And by the blast of His anger they come to an end.

      10“The roaring of the lion and the voice of the fierce lion,
And the teeth of the young lions are broken.

      11“The lion perishes for lack of prey,
And the whelps of the lioness are scattered.

      12“Now a word was brought to me stealthily,
And my ear received a whisper of it.

      13“Amid disquieting thoughts from the visions of the night,
When deep sleep falls on men,

      14Dread came upon me, and trembling,
And made all my bones shake.

      15“Then a spirit passed by my face;
The hair of my flesh bristled up.

      16“It stood still, but I could not discern its appearance;
A form was before my eyes;
There was silence, then I heard a voice:

      17‘Can mankind be just before God?
Can a man be pure before his Maker?

      18‘He puts no trust even in His servants;
And against His angels He charges error.

      19‘How much more those who dwell in houses of clay,
Whose foundation is in the dust,
Who are crushed before the moth!

      20‘Between morning and evening they are broken in pieces;
Unobserved, they perish forever.

      21‘Is not their tent-cord plucked up within them?
They die, yet without wisdom.’

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Eliphaz’s Attempt at Comfort: Job 4 opens with Eliphaz expressing concern for Job’s distress and offering what he believes to be comforting words. His intention is to bring solace, but the chapter unfolds a deeper exploration of the impact of well-intentioned advice in times of suffering.
  2. The Vision of Eliphaz: Eliphaz shares a visionary experience, describing a revelation that suggests human suffering is a consequence of sin. His words reflect the prevailing wisdom of the time, linking misfortune directly to moral failure, a perspective that is challenged and nuanced throughout the book of Job.
  3. The Unraveling of Traditional Wisdom: While Eliphaz speaks from a place of sincere belief, his words contribute to the unraveling of traditional wisdom in the face of Job’s inexplicable suffering. The chapter sets the stage for the broader theological discussions that follow in the book.
  4. Job’s Response: Job’s response to Eliphaz introduces a theme that echoes throughout the book—the tension between traditional understanding and the complex reality of human suffering. Job grapples with the inadequacy of simplistic explanations for his profound pain.

As we navigate the nuanced terrain of Job 4, let’s reflect on the complexities of offering comfort in times of deep suffering. How do we respond when faced with the unexplainable trials in our lives or the lives of others?

Reflect on and share your insights on the unraveling wisdom and the limitations of well-intentioned advice.

Job 4 invites us to embrace humility in our understanding of human suffering, recognizing the need for empathy and a willingness to sit with the mysteries of life.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the profound lessons embedded in this chapter.

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

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, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Tribulation

Wrestling with Darkness – A Cry from the Depths (Job 3)

Enter the haunting shadows of Job 3, where the virtuous man, stripped of his fortune and health, releases a cry from the depths of his despair.

Join us as we explore the profound depths of human suffering, the questions it raises, and the raw honesty found in Job’s wrestling with darkness.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Job 3

Job’s Lament

      1Afterward Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. 2And Job said,

      3“Let the day perish on which I was to be born,
And the night which said, ‘A boy is conceived.’

      4“May that day be darkness;
Let not God above care for it,
Nor light shine on it.

      5“Let darkness and black gloom claim it;
Let a cloud settle on it;
Let the blackness of the day terrify it.

      6“As for that night, let darkness seize it;
Let it not rejoice among the days of the year;
Let it not come into the number of the months.

      7“Behold, let that night be barren;
Let no joyful shout enter it.

      8“Let those curse it who curse the day,
Who are prepared to rouse Leviathan.

      9“Let the stars of its twilight be darkened;
Let it wait for light but have none,
And let it not see the breaking dawn;

      10Because it did not shut the opening of my mother’s womb,
Or hide trouble from my eyes.

      11“Why did I not die at birth,
Come forth from the womb and expire?

      12“Why did the knees receive me,
And why the breasts, that I should suck?

      13“For now I would have lain down and been quiet;
I would have slept then, I would have been at rest,

      14With kings and with counselors of the earth,
Who rebuilt ruins for themselves;

      15Or with princes who had gold,
Who were filling their houses with silver.

      16“Or like a miscarriage which is discarded, I would not be,
As infants that never saw light.

      17“There the wicked cease from raging,
And there the weary are at rest.

      18“The prisoners are at ease together;
They do not hear the voice of the taskmaster.

      19“The small and the great are there,
And the slave is free from his master.

      20“Why is light given to him who suffers,
And life to the bitter of soul,

      21Who long for death, but there is none,
And dig for it more than for hidden treasures,

      22Who rejoice greatly,
And exult when they find the grave?

      23“Why is light given to a man whose way is hidden,
And whom God has hedged in?

      24“For my groaning comes at the sight of my food,
And my cries pour out like water.

      25“For what I fear comes upon me,
And what I dread befalls me.

      26“I am not at ease, nor am I quiet,
And I am not at rest, but turmoil comes.”

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Grief-Stricken Lament: Job, overwhelmed by the weight of his suffering, unleashes a torrent of grief and lament in Chapter 3. This poignant expression becomes a raw and unfiltered cry from the depths of his soul, revealing the profound anguish he experiences.
  2. The Desire for Nonexistence: Job’s lament goes beyond conventional expressions of sorrow. He passionately expresses a desire for the nonexistence, questioning the purpose of a life filled with such intense suffering.
  3. The Complexity of Human Suffering: Job 3 prompts us to grapple with the complexities of human suffering. It raises profound questions about the nature of pain, the role of God in our trials, and the depths of despair that even the most righteous can experience.
  4. The Unraveling of Job’s Faith: In this chapter, we witness Job’s faith being tested to its limits. The unraveling of his once unshakable trust in God reflects the brutal reality of wrestling with faith in the face of overwhelming adversity.

As we delve into the poignant verses of Job 3, let’s confront the raw honesty of human suffering and the questions it brings.

How do we grapple with darkness in our own lives, and where do we find hope amid despair?

Share your reflections on the complexities of pain and the challenges to faith.

Job’s cry echoes through the ages, inviting us to embrace the honesty of our struggles and find solace in the journey toward understanding.

Join the conversation by commenting, and let’s navigate together the profound depths of Job 3.

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

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, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Tribulation

Navigating the Depths of Suffering and Faith (Job 1)

Enter the profound narrative of Job, a man of exemplary faith tested through unimaginable trials. In the opening chapter, we embark on a journey through the complexities of suffering and the resilience of unwavering faith. Join us as we delve into Job 1, seeking wisdom and insights that transcend the ages. (Full chapter included at end of article.)

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Righteousness of Job: Job is introduced as a man of exceptional righteousness, both in his deeds and his fear of God. His character sets the stage for the challenges that will unfold, showcasing the capacity of faith to withstand even the harshest trials.
  2. The Heavenly Council: The chapter provides a unique glimpse into the heavenly realm, where Satan challenges Job’s faith. God permits a series of calamities to befall Job, testing the depth of his devotion and trust.
  3. Loss and Suffering: In rapid succession, Job receives news of devastating losses—his livestock, servants, and even his children. Job’s response, characterized by deep grief yet profound faith, serves as a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity.
  4. Job’s Remarkable Faith: Despite immense suffering, Job’s response is remarkable. He tears his robe, shaves his head, and falls to the ground in worship, acknowledging God’s sovereignty even in the midst of profound loss.

As we begin our exploration of the Book of Job in Chapter 1, consider the timeless lessons embedded in Job’s response to suffering. How does his unwavering faith inspire you in your own trials?

Let Job’s example guide our reflections on the challenges we encounter, reminding us that, even in the depths of suffering, our faith can be an anchor.

Share your thoughts on the resilience of faith in the face of adversity.

 

Join the conversation by commenting below, and together, let’s draw strength from Job’s enduring testimony.

Job 1

Job’s Character and Wealth

      1There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job; and that man was blameless, upright, fearing God and turning away from evil. 2Seven sons and three daughters were born to him. 3His possessions also were 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, 500 female donkeys, and very many servants; and that man was the greatest of all the men of the east. 4His sons used to go and hold a feast in the house of each one on his day, and they would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5When the days of feasting had completed their cycle, Job would send and consecrate them, rising up early in the morning and offering burnt offerings according to the number of them all; for Job said, “Perhaps my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did continually.

      6Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. 7The LORD said to Satan, “From where do you come?” Then Satan answered the LORD and said, “From roaming about on the earth and walking around on it.” 8The LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil.” 9Then Satan answered the LORD, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 10“Have You not made a hedge about him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11“But put forth Your hand now and touch all that he has; he will surely curse You to Your face.” 12Then the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power, only do not put forth your hand on him.” So Satan departed from the presence of the LORD.

Satan Allowed to Test Job

13Now on the day when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 14a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, 15and the Sabeans attacked and took them. They also slew the servants with the edge of the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 16While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants and consumed them, and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 17While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three bands and made a raid on the camels and took them and slew the servants with the edge of the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 18While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “Your sons and your daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 19and behold, a great wind came from across the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young people and they died, and I alone have escaped to tell you.”

      20Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped.

21He said,
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb,
And naked I shall return there.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away.
Blessed be the name of the LORD.”

      22Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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, Tribulation

On Earth You Will Have Many Trials and Sorrows, but Take Heart

Yeshua tells us that we will have trials and sorrows in this world, but we may find peace in Him.

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.”

Many of us find it easy to trust Yeshua when all is going well, but it is tougher sometimes to trust in Him when we are in the midst of difficulty. We are impacted by emotions and stress like waves and winds at sea tossing us about in a storm.

The disciples found themselves in this situation, literally, while on their journeys with Yeshua as told in 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!”

 

Key points to draw from this as we encounter storms in our lives:

  • Yeshua tells us the storms will come. Expect them.
  • Sometimes Yeshua directs us into the storm for our growth or to serve Him. He knew the storm was coming when He told the disciples to get in the boat.
  • Several of the disciples were experienced fishermen, they would not easily be frightened by an average storm. This one was rough.
  • Yeshua models behavior showing that when we have faith we do not need to be living in fear or stress, even in a storm.
  • When we are scared or troubled we may not remember, but Yeshua is in the boat with us.
  • Even though Yeshua wants us to grow in our faith, He will answer when we earnestly seek Him.
  • When we get discouraged, lets remember that even those who walked with Yeshua still had trouble in the storm.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You for the example, teaching, and sacrifice of Yeshua on my behalf. Thank You for Your written word and Holy Spirit to instruct me. Help me, and all of Your people, remember that we will face storms in this world, but that does not mean You have abandoned us. You are still with us. Help us to have strong faith in the storms. Amen. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

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, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, False Prophets / Teachers, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Jesus (hearing from God), Justice / Judgment, Obeying God, Parables, Prophecy, Salvation, Tribulation

Jesus Prophecies About the Temple Destruction and His Return (Part 3)

Jesus continues His prophetic response to Peter, James, John and Andrew regarding three important questions in Matthew 24:32-51 and Matthew 25:1-13. They are having a private discussion on the mount of olives. The questions were: “When will the temple be destroyed?”, ” What will be the sign of Your coming?”, and “What will be the sign of the end of the age?” (If you missed it, we encourage you to read Part 1, and  Part 2  before you read further here in Part 3.)

The prophecy can be difficult to fully evaluate in part because Jesus does not clearly separate where He is talking about the end of the Age… His second coming… from the signs preceding the temple destruction, which occurred approximately 40 years after these words were spoken. (To study much more detail, consider the commentaries available on BibleHub.com.)

Many people spend a lot of time trying to specifically predict when Jesus will return at the end of the age… the end of the world as it currently exists. While it is important to be familiar with prophecy to recognize the signs of the times so we can properly respond to Jesus’ warning about the times leading up to His return… He also warns us in several different examples that none shall know the specific hour of His coming. Rather the warning is to be prepared ahead of time… prepare now.

Matthew 24:32-51

Parable of the Fig Tree

32“Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; 33so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door. 34“Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 35“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

36“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. 37“For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. 38“For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. 40“Then there will be two men in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. 41“Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one will be left.

Be Ready for His Coming

42“Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. 43“But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. 44“For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.

45“Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household to give them their food at the proper time? 46“Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. 47“Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 48“But if that evil slave says in his heart, ‘My master is not coming for a long time,’ 49and begins to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards; 50the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour which he does not know, 51and will cut him in pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 25:1-13

Parable of Ten Virgins

1“Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2“Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. 3“For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, 4but the prudent took oil in flasks along with their lamps. 5“Now while the bridegroom was delaying, they all got drowsy and began to sleep. 6“But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ 7“Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. 8“The foolish said to the prudent, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9“But the prudent answered, ‘No, there will not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ 10“And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. 11“Later the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ 12“But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ 13“Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour.

Thankfully, we do not have to fully understand prophecy to understand what Jesus is calling us to do to prepare. We are called to accept Jesus as Lord repenting from our sins, become disciples through constant study and prayer, and then go and make disciples of others. This is how we prepare for the end times… to be ready even though we do not know exactly when it comes. We know enough to recognize that we better devote our lives to Jesus and help others to do the same. That is how we prepare.

Get started by learning some key teachings:

Then we invite you to study the Bible with us daily through our devotions via email, Facebook, or on our website Latest Devotions page.

Click link to continue to Part 4 in this article series.

Please pray with me:

Father, please help me to come to proper relationship with You now. Let me not put it off, assuming it only matters that I am doing what is right when You return. Help me to strengthen my faith, my passion for Your word, to worship You, to spend time with You, to share the gospel with others. Help me to know when I hear from You. Lead me to repent of my sins. Help me to prepare now, this very day. Amen. 

If you have questions or want to know more, please Contact Us.

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

—-

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, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, False Prophets / Teachers, Fear / Reverence for God, Jesus (hearing from God), Obeying God, Prophecy, Salvation, Tribulation

Jesus Prophecies About the Temple Destruction and His Return (Part 2)

Jesus continues His prophetic response to Peter, James, John and Andrew regarding three important questions in Matthew 24:15-31. They are having a private discussion on the mount of olives. The questions were: “When will the temple be destroyed?”, ” What will be the sign of Your coming?”, and “What will be the sign of the end of the age?” (If you missed it, we encourage you to read Part 1, before you read further here in Part 2.)

    15“Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), 16then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. 17“Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get the things out that are in his house. 18“Whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19“But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20“But pray that your flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21“For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. 22“Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. 23“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Behold, here is the Christ,’ or ‘There He is,’ do not believe him. 24“For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. 25“Behold, I have told you in advance. 26“So if they say to you, ‘Behold, He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out, or, ‘Behold, He is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe them. 27“For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. 28“Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.

      29“But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30“And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. 31“And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

Jesus provides no specific answer as to when the temple will be destroyed. In fact He answers in a way that intermingles the description of the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the age so that it is at times difficult to separate which comments apply for which event. He  answers as if both the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the age may be described by a similar answer… as if one is a  foreshadowing one for the other.

Let us break it down verse by verse for more insight.

15“Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand),

The abomination of desolation refers to the Roman army’s occupation of Jerusalem preceding the city’s destruction and the desecration of the temple resulting from the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes in the mid-2nd century BC. Specifically, he set up an altar to Zeus in the Second Temple in Jerusalem, and sacrificed swine on it around the year 167 BC.

The destruction of Jerusalem after the Jewish people rejected Jesus Christ as Messiah may represent a foreshadowing of the end of the world when Christ comes again after many reject Him.

16then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. 17“Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get the things out that are in his house. 18“Whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19“But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days!

This section of the prophecy clearly warns God’s people to be prepared. Recognize the signs and move quickly and urgently. There is no time to spare. It will be difficult. In regards to the Roman siege of Jerusalem, those who heeded Jesus’ prophecy were able to get out before the siege began, escaping to the countryside or wilderness. Those who were not prepared… who did not recognize the signs… would have been trapped in the middle of it.

So too we must prepare ourselves for the end of the age… the end of the world. We must be ready for it. The most important preparation is to turn from our wrong behaviors and thoughts (our sins)… to ask Jesus for forgiveness and make Him Lord of our life. (read more: The Message of the Cross – Salvation)

20“But pray that your flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21“For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. 22“Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.

Followers of Christ were not spared the tribulation of the siege of Jerusalem by God removing them from the situation. If they were prepared and heeded Jesus’ prophetic warning to leave, then their time was less hard… but still hard.  So, too, will it be at the end of the age. Christians will not be spared the great tribulation, but can take refuge in knowing what it brings and through personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Jesus encourages us to pray that our part of the tribulation would be more manageable… less harsh… so that we may endure it to the end. We should do as Jesus guides and pray.

23“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Behold, here is the Christ,’ or ‘There He is,’ do not believe him. 24“For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. 25“Behold, I have told you in advance. 26“So if they say to you, ‘Behold, He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out, or, ‘Behold, He is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe them.

Jesus’ comments here appear to apply more toward the end times rather than the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. He warns us clearly to watch out for the deception of false prophets who will claim to be Christ or speak for God. We must study scripture daily, seek God in prayer, and pray for God’s help to recognize the false prophets for what they are… lest they lead us astray. There are many today, leading people away from Jesus, claiming to teach His word. Each of us must heed this warning and take action in our lives to prepare. We must not be lazy in our study and prayer… doing it “when we have time”. We must seek first the kingdom of God.

Matthew 6:33 33“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

27“For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.

Jesus is letting us know that when He returns… it will be in a manner very different than we may imagine and very different from every false Christ. The second coming of Jesus shall be like lightning… swift, unexpected, and powerful. There is some thought that even the manner in which the Romans came to conquer Jerusalem can be compared to this prophecy… again as perhaps a foreshadowing of the end of the age.

 28“Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.

To be honest, this verse is a bit tougher to understand with confidence. It may refer to wherever a church or nation has rejected God… is dead to God… and is decaying… there God’s ministers of vengeance, the vultures, do their work of destruction so as to leave room for new life.

 29“But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30“And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. 31“And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

Verses 29-31 again reinforce that Jesus’ return will not be subtle. It will be magnificent and obvious for those who are prepared to recognize it. His return will not be something that is unclear at all but rather He will come in great power.

All the tribes of the earth will mourn… all those who have rejected Jesus and instead chosen another path fear the coming of judgment. If they do not fear it now… they will fear it as Jesus returns in full power and glory and they can no longer rationalize their denial and rejection of Him.

The angels are sent forth with great fanfare to gather those on the earth who have chosen and submitted to Jesus, for they were scattered.

For those of us who follow and submit to Jesus, this time represents a wonderful time for celebration! For those who reject Jesus , it is a time to dread… judgment comes and they are on the wrong side of it.

Thankfully, we do not have to fully understand prophecy to understand what Jesus is calling us to do to prepare. We are called to accept Jesus as Lord repenting from our sins, become disciples through constant study and prayer, and then go and make disciples of others. This is how we prepare for the end times… to be ready even though we do not know exactly when it comes. We know enough to recognize that we better devote our lives to Jesus and help others to do the same. That is how we prepare.

Get started by learning some key teachings:

Then we invite you to study the Bible with us daily through our devotions via email, Facebook, or on our website Latest Devotions page.

Click link to continue to Part 3 in this article series.

Please pray with me:

Father, please help me to come to proper relationship with You now. Let me not put it off, assuming it only matters that I am doing what is right when You return. Help me to strengthen my faith, my passion for Your word, to worship You, to spend time with You, to share the gospel with others. Help me to know when I hear from You. Lead me to repent of my sins. Help me to prepare now, this very day. Amen. 

If you have questions or want to know more, please Contact Us.

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

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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.