When facing trials and pain, all too often we become so focused on our pain; we forget the truth of God’s goodness and mercy. Never does God allow suffering in our life without His Divine Purpose being to use it for our good. At the beginning of the book of Job, he so rightly said; “What? Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” (Job 2:10). Then, his “counselors” began to say, “all this is because of your sin. God rightly judges you. Repent”. Job became so intent on proving himself righteous in their eyes, that he lost focus on God, demanding that God was unjust in His acts. Thus, as the layers began to be peeled away; there was exposed that thread of pride and arrogance, he had never known was there.
Although, God remained present; Job could not hear Him; because, Job was so focused on himself. Never had I thought of myself as vain or even concerned with my looks; until, cancer stole it from me. Then, as I stared into the mirror at a bald, overweight image; I loathed the image which brought back the cruel mocking sounds of others criticism of a fat little girl. I lost focus. To make matters worse, following the cancer, came the ulcerative colitis. High dose steroids caused me to develop a buffalo hump, a moon face, inability to lose weight, plus, I grew a full beard and mustache. Suddenly, exposed was my own vanity, pride and prejudices. In a society that places so much value on looks, I wanted to scream, “look inside, not on the outside.” But how often, had I failed to do the same.
PRIDE EXPOSED
Elihu entered the scene to speak. He pointed out that God also allows tragedy to teach us. “Behold, God is mighty, and despiseth not any: He is mighty in strength and wisdom…. He delivereth the poor in his affliction and openeth their ears in oppression…God exalteth by His power: who teacheth like Him?” (Job 36: 5,15,22). Who can fully understand His wisdom? We certainly cannot. But we can trust Him that nothing comes into our life, unless it is for our good and the good of the Kingdom. Even if we don’t understand, we know His plan is good.
In chapter 37, Elihu goes on to extol God for His providence over even the weather.
Out of the south cometh the whirlwind: and cold out of the north. By the breath of God frost is given: and the breadth of the waters is straitened. Also, by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud: And it is turned round about by his counsels: that they may do whatsoever he commandeth them upon the face of the world in the earth. He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for his land, or for mercy. Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God (Job 37:9-14).
Did you see that?
“He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for his land, or for mercy.” God has a perfect plan in your suffering. A good plan, whether it be to expose a thread of pride, turn you for a path that can destroy you, correct your vision of Him, or use your suffering to help another find Him. We may never know the purpose completely; but, we can trust Him. As such Elihu’s speech exposed the self-centered thoughts of Job as well as his vain pride. This forced Job to look at God in all His Grandeur and Glory; opening the door, for Job to now hear God speak.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Whatever sorrow or suffering you face today, ask God to reveal to you Himself. As we shall see next time, God spoke in the whirlwind.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.