Read: Job 42:1-6, 10
Job was a wealthy man who was noted for his moral integrity. He was a man of good reputation, a devoted father, and had a passion and reverence for God. In one tragic day, his whole world came crashing down. First it was his property—oxen, donkeys, sheep, and camels. They were stolen or destroyed. Then it was the death of his 10 children in one fatal swoop. In the face of this devastation, Job’s response was to worship God and trust Him as the giver of all things.
With the pain of loss an unpleasant reality, the adversary struck again with a terrible skin disease that ostracized Job from his home and community. Once again he remained faithful.
As Job reflected with his friends, he began seeking answers to the cause of his suffering. He wanted to know ‘why.’ Naturally, we would ask this same question. We speculate about how much one can endure before breaking. We cry out to God for answers.
When God responded to Job’s plea, it wasn’t with apology or explanation. Rather God conveyed this profound truth: It is better to know God than to know why. With this truth, Job humbled himself before God.
See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful (James 5:10-11).
PRAYER PROMPT: Lord, may we joyfully rest in knowing you and your presence in our lives. Amen.
Kevin Carrothers serves as pastor of Rochester FBC and president of IBSA.