A lesson from Job

Ever read the book of Job? Now I don't mean just a few verses, but the whole book. If not, I highly recommend reading it sometime. (It takes a approximately an hour to read, so try and find a time when you can sit and read it with no distractions)Anways, the book of Job has many lessons in it that can and should be learned.

1. If ever you are going through a hardship and you just don't understand why, remember Job. His first response was praise to God because he knew that God is Good and Just. His second response was candid honesty towards God; sharing his true feelings rather than covering them up with shallow cliche's. He also listened as God replied to Him with great Wisdom; he did not continue his complaining and ignore what God had to say.

2. If ever your friends are going through a rough time, remember Job; do not be like Job's friends. They were right to go to Job's side and mourn with him; But, their folly began when they opened their mouths without wisdom. This is where many Christians fall short today. We become so eager to help our friends get through their pain, that we sugar coat our words and water down truth. An example would be: Say you just lost a loved one... Your friends come to your side. Now each of them wants you to be happy again so they begin thinking of ways to make you feel better. One friend begins quoting every scripture he/she can think of that fits the scenario. Another friend just keeps telling you, "You'll be okay soon" or "The pain will pass." And still another friend sits quietly at your side, holding your hand or laying their hand on your back. This friend is also praying and asking for God's comfort. This friend quotes scripture to you as well, but waits for the right moments and chooses the scripture carefully; not taking it out of context. We should strive to be like the third friend; leaving plenty of room for God to work.

3. Regardless of what you are going through, the life of Job teaches us that God is in control. Everything is in His Sovereign hands; you are in His hands.

May you all have a blessed day!
~Cameron