Job 31-34

“Therefore, hear me, you men of understanding; far be it from God that he should do wickedness, and from the Almighty that he should do wrong.  For according to the work of man he will repay him, and according to his ways he will make it befall him.  Of a truth, God will not do wickedly, and the Almighty will not pervert justice.  Who gave him charge over the earth, and who laid on him the whole world?” Job 34:1-13 ESV

I find myself feeling hopeful for Job, that Elihu will speak truth into him. Some of what he says is true. God’s ways and plans ARE higher than ours.  But, he is still misleading when he is implying that there is a hidden sin.  I find myself getting mad at Job’s friends for accusing him of this.  And for Elihu for sounding so spiritual in his speech. But than I have to examine my own heart.  How many times have I silently judged someone the same way?  Without knowing the whole story? I am reminded of John 9:1-3 “This happened not because his parents sinned.  But to bring God glory.”

“Hear my speech, O Job, and listen to my words.  Behold, I open my mouth; the tongue in my mouth speaks.  My words declare the uprightness of my heart, and what my lips know they speak sincerely.  The Spirit of God has made me, and the Almighty gives me life.  “Behold, in this you are not right.  I will answer you, for God is greater than man.  Why do you contend against him, saying, ‘He will answer none of man’s words’? For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it.He has redeemed my soul from going down into the pit, and my life shall look upon the light.”Behold, God does all these things, twice, three times, with a man, to bring back his soul from the pit, that he may be lighted with the light of life.  Pay attention, O Job, listen to me; be silent, and I will speak.” Job 33:1-7;28-30 ESV

Elihu did encourage Job to look at his suffering in a different way.  That God is working out a greater purpose than he can see now.  I am thankful that I have friends who do the same.  They tell me that the battle is developing His character in me.  That the onslaughts of the enemy are because of my closeness to God, not how far away I am from him.  That God wants to make me stronger through it.  Job needed friends like these.  Wise, Godly friends to cheer him on.  I pray that I can be that kind of friend.

Dear Father,  Give me wisdom and discernment to know if a well meaning opinion is from you. I pray that I would listen to your voice the loudest to guide me.  Thank you for people that you have put in my life who have lead me according to your word.  Amen.

Amy(amyctanner)

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