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'Winging It
by Stan Smith
In the book of Job we read that Satan tested Job because of a challenge from God and took away Job's property and children (Job 1). What a blow! He lost everything. He lost everything at Satan's hands under God's supervision (Job 1:12). So, of course, Job was upset with God, right? Right?
Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped. He 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." Through all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong. (Job 1:20-22)
Well, he was upset. He "tore his robe and shaved his head." But did you get what he did next? He "worshiped". Really?? The chapter ends with the astounding claim, "Through all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong." Seriously?
Who among us would be with Job on this? I've seen a lot of people endure a lot of things in my life. Accidents, injuries, deaths of loved ones, cancer, sickness, financial, social, and other loss. Lots of stuff. I have to say that the most common response has not been worship or "Blessed be the name of the LORD." I've heard a lot of "Why, God?" And that's not necessarily bad. I'm not suggesting it is. If you read through the book of Job, he eventually asks the question himself (Job 31:35). That's not a problem. But how many of us are going to say, "Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10)?
What does it take to get there? I ask because clearly we're mostly not and clearly we should be. What does it take to accept adversity from the hand of God -- serious trials -- and say, "Blessed be the name of the LORD"? I would suggest it takes a renewed mind (Romans 12:2). I would think it would take confidence in the Sovereign Lord. Perhaps we have -- I have -- a ways to go on that. "I do believe; help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24)
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I'm married with four grown children and (currently) four grandchildren. My wife and I live in sunny Phoenix by choice. I hope to encourage people with my words and to share with others what God has shared with me.
For more writings you can see my blog at birdsoftheair.blogspot.com.
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