A Monster is Loose

O. T. 1159 "A Monster is Loose"
Feb. 28, 2018
Job 41


LET IT GLOW 

With all the killings in our country, it is evident that an evil monster is loose. His name is Satan. Did Job know about him? God reveals the truth of Job's situation by describing this monster.

What is a leviathan? No one is for sure exactly what kind of animal it was. Suggestions include:
a sea monster, an ancient dinosaur, a giant crocodile, killer whale, or a great white shark. Whatever it was, the leviathan was an ultimate killer beast that was created by God. Being a mighty beast that could overwhelm men, but was no match for God.

In verse 4 we read another question God asks Job-Will he make a covenant with you so that you can take him as a slave forever?
In other words, is Job able to control it? Both God and Job knew the answer was no.

In The Jeremiah Study Bible, Brother David has this to help us better understand this chapter:

Leviathan points to Satan, the paragon of evil, whom Yahweh has in control and one day will destroy. (Isaiah 27:1, Revelation 20:1-3)

This makes sense to me. Look at the descriptions of this monster: mighty power, thick skinned, spits fire, proud, strong neck, sorrow dances around him, a stone heart, might men fear him, can't be destroyed by sharp weapons, is king over all the children of pride.

Carnal weapons have no power in a spiritual war against the devil, his cunning schemes, and fierce attacks. Billy Graham said our greatest hinderance  to Satan's destructive efforts is our standing strong in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. The greatest roadblock to Satan's work is the Christian who, above else, lives for God, walks with integrity, is filled with the Spirit, and is obedient to God's truth.


 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.  1 Peter 5: 8-9

It was Satan, many chapters earlier, who asked to sift Job. Is God telling Job the answer to his "why's?"

Will we take the warning?

LET IT GROW 

Although Satan is labeled "the ruler of this world," his rule will eventually end. His fate was sealed at the cross and by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus will imprison him in the pit. He will set right all that the enemy has perverted and destroyed. Poof. One day this dragon will be destroyed.

Will we be found a faithful servant of Jesus when our life is over?

LET IT GO

Job remained faithful, yet was humbled when God spoke to him. Will we?
Will we accept good and bad from Him? Realize that God is more powerful than Satan.
Our God is the Lion of Judea. No one can stop Him. Will we bow before Him? Is He fighting our battles or are we?

To Big for His Britches

O. T. 1157 "To Big for His Britches"
Feb. 26, 2018
Job 40
Verse?

LET IT GLOW 

I remember my mom telling me I was getting to big for my britches. She didn't me I was outgrowing my slacks. My mouth got me into trouble. I was talking like I was in charge and not her. Well, let's say I found my place right away, by the seat of my pants. Job had gotten to that place, too. How will he react?

God had interrogated Job, asking if he knew how He created everything and sustained it all, from the deep ocean to animals to far away space. Of course he didn't know the answers to God's questions. Since Job did not understand the workings of God's physical creation, how could he possibly understand the character and mind of God? He is Judge and there is none higher than God Almighty. Our only option is to submit to His authority and rest in His care. God is in charge.

God was getting Job to recognize and submit to His authority. Then Job would be ready to listen, really listen to what God had to say to him. Although Job was a righteous man, he still needed to submit to God and His will.

How did Job react when given his chance to speak? Verses 4 and 5 tell us,
I am so insignificant. How can I answer You?
I place my hand over my mouth. 
I have spoken once, and I will not reply; twice, but now I can add nothing. 


Job was referring to what he spoke to Bildad in chapter 9:
If one wanted to take Him to court, he could not answer God once in a thousand times. 
(Verse 3)
Even if I were in the right, I could not answer. I could only beg my Judge for mercy. (Verse15)

Although Job didn't think he warranted such suffering, he had wanted his case presented before God. Job didn't claim to be perfect, but good and faithful. I would say God put him in his place-not in charge, not Judge, not all wise. Ooo, how God has that ability, to put us in our right place, under His authority.

Have we learned through the years that regardless of why we think is fair, God knows and does what is best? He continues to love and care for us even when we are hurting.


 LET IT GROW 

 Job was guilty as charged so he was shutting his mouth. Wise man after all, huh? He knows he should not have:

• found fault with the Almighty;
• insisted on his own understanding;
• thought Him unjust. 

Here comes Job's challenges: Job, if you think you are so smart, then you take over as God. If I am unjust, then you be Judge. You reach out with a strong arm and meet everyone and everything's needs. You speak out with a thundering voice. Adorn yourself with majesty and splendor; clothe yourself with honor and glory. Unleash your anger. Look on every proud person to humble and humiliate him. Trample the wicked to dust and in the grave. Then I will confess to you that your own right hand can deliver you.

Oh my, Job fall on your face and repent right now before you are blown away.
God is God and we are but ants in His sight, sinful ants in need of mercy.
Have we become too prideful? Too big for our britches like Job?
Guilty, Lord.

LET IT GO

How I need You Jesus. I fail. I think that I know what is best. I put myself in charge when You are.
I need mercy and forgiveness Jesus.
It is good that I have been afflicted so I look up to You.

A New Setting

O. T. 1157 "A New Setting"
Feb. 23, 2018
Job 38-39


LET IT GLOW 

If ever there was a person who needed a new setting for his life, it would be Job. Sitting among ashes at the city dump, listening to four critics, and grieving for his children, itching and scratching boils, he definitely needed a change.
God broke His silence with the suffering Job. He asked if Job knew how things came to exist and function. Now continuing on, God asked if Job knew about various animals in the animal kingdom-the lion, raven, mountain goat, deer, wild donkey and ox, ostrich, horse, hawk, eagle.

What in the world does discussing the outer space, deep oceans, and zoo animals have to do with comforting Job, who is covered with boils all over? All God had to do was go zap and Job would be well. But God did not do it.

Was the Lord taking Job on a walk through His creation? Did God's creation amaze Job? Did he understand the power of his God? Did Job see how God lovingly provided for His animals? They were under God's control, obediently doing what they were instructed to do uniquely.
Do we stop to consider such things? Perhaps I recognize God's power and provision for the animals and birds  more than most since I live in the country. Yesterday, I watched an eagle sitting in a treetop looking for food, 4 whitetail deer running across the road and leaping over a fence. This morning there were cardinals and blue jays eating cat food on my front porch. God's amazing creation honors and glorifies Him. Do I?

LET IT GROW 

  David Atkinson contributed these thoughts:

You are never what you ought, till you go out of yourself and walk among them. That is perhaps why God takes Job on this tour-to show His majesty in His works: to take Job out of himself, to distract him from his misery, to broaden his horizons to the creative and life-giving majesty of God, and to enable him to see himself in a new setting. Job, this is where your heart will find rest: in finding your own place within the panorama of God's purposes for His world. Can you lift up your eyes from the ash heap, and see the glory of God in His creation?

I could not say it any better nor add to this.
Perhaps we need a new setting in order to get a new perspective on our situation, problem, troubles, circumstances that seem to keep going on and on, keeping us down.
I for one do. When I look out the window of the house in which I have been a prisoner for a week of recovery, I see God's love shown to His beautiful creation and am humbled. I am reassured that He has this. In my awestruck wonder, I feel the love of a Heavenly Father watching over me, providing for me all I need.

LET IT GO

Thanks and glory and praise be to the God Most High.
Your blessings astound me as they surround me.
A love  that is never ending; mercies new every morning; a salvation that saves this sinner for all eternity, that is You.
Oh Jesus, You give me life and breath. May I proclaim how wonderful You are. Sweet Jesus

Is God Big or Small?

O. T. 1156. "Is God Big or Small?"
Feb. 22,2018
Job 38


LET IT GLOW 

"Who do you think you are questioning Me? "God didn't waste time with small talk or an indirect approach when He spoke to Job in a whirlwind. He spoke directly to Job, not the 4 friends. However, they probably heard and saw whatever Job did. All those things took place in the previous 37 chapters before God spoke to Job. He was silent during that lapse of time, which is unknown to us.

Gird up now your loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou Me. 
(Verse 3 KJV)

The NLT puts verses 2 and 3 this way:
Who is this that questions My wisdom with such ignorant words?
Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. 

God reveals Himself as Yahweh, the LORD, in this passage. In the Old Testament, He speaks not only through a whirlwind, but in thunder/lightning/storm/quake.
Job, here He comes, ready or not.
In chapters 38 and 39, the mystery and grandeur of creation are revealed. Also, the might and wisdom of  a God that created this universe is implied.

So I ask, "Is our God big or small?"
As we read through this monologue, let's look for the answer.
In light of last week's horrific shooting of 17 people, we might wonder. But I say
we want the ability to make choices and not be told what to do as a robot, which god grants. We have it seen as the young man made such a stupid choice of using a gun to solve his problems when God held the answers available to him. If only he had asked our wise God, he wouldn't have done what he did, needlessly ending those lives for his revenge to be satisfied. Let us continue to pray for those shocked and grieving families, school, and community in Florida.

Is our God too little to stop this terribleness? Did He allow it for a higher purpose that we cannot see or understand? I wonder if many will be saved because evil was allowed to act? I pray good will prevail.

LET IT GROW 

There are 75 questions that God asks Job, according to Swindoll. Reading them, we recognize He is a mighty, magnificent, and majestic God that created everything. Right away God let's Job know who is in charge. God's ways and works are beyond our understanding most of the time.

Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Job wasn't present, not any human was there. Only Jesus and angels.
God speaks of:

• the things in space-stars, sun, earth;
• things on the earth-the deep sea, its boundaries, and waves actions;
• in space-the planets in or galaxy, other galaxies beyond us;
• clouds, rain, seasons on earth. 

Stopping at verse 33, shall we dive deeper into discussion of what God has mentioned so far?
Did you know the deepest place discovered in the ocean is 6.78 miles down? That's a little over 6 and 3/4 miles beneath the surface. Where is it? It's an area located near Guam, out in the Pacific Ocean. It is named Mariana Trench. There is a trench under water formed by plates. Volcanoes and earthquakes have been discovered in this area. It is interesting to read about. Just Google "deepest part of ocean" for more details. God knows all about this hidden place.

Turning the opposite direction, up into outer space, we learn yet more magnificent information:

• Our Milky Way Galaxy is not the only galaxy in the universe.
• The giant telescope Hubble, in 1995, detected 125 billion galaxies beyond ours.
• Now there is thought to be 10 times more which are too faint and too far to observe.
• It took one of our space probes 12 years to cover 4.4 billion miles, ultimately passing within 1,000 miles of Neptune's cloudbank.

Isn't it mind-boggling to think there are possibly millions and billions of galaxies out there? I believe God created them, however many there are. You can google "galaxies" to get more information. Keep in mind, their reports will not be from a Christ-Creator view point, but from the big bank theory.
Does the enormity of it all make us feel incredibly insignificant? Are we just microscopic specks when compared to the telescopic vastness of outer space?
Our God created it all, set it into motion, and keeps everything moving in clockwork precision. We stand in awe of You, Jesus, our Creator, Savior, and Master.

LET IT GO

When I get to thinking more highly of myself, look up and consider the majesty of Almighty God.

Since this God who made the dark, deep space and dark, deep sea can control what occurs there, can't He control what little things happen in my minute life? He sees what is going on here at this country road of faith of mine. Oh, yes indeed. (And yours, too, friend.)

He has proven His faithfulness over and over.

My God is a big God who made heaven and earth and controls it all.

You're in Big Trouble Dude

O. T. 1155 "You're in Big Trouble Dude"
Feb. 21, 2018
Job 32-37

LET IT GLOW

Look out now. Just when we thought we were through with the lecturing, here comes one last friend. His name is Elihu. He is the youngest of of four. He was listening and observing as Job and the 3 debated their beliefs.
I don't know about you, but I'm ready to get this over. That's why I think it would be acceptable to do an overview of Elihu's 4 speeches. They are broken down like this:

1. Initial message covers chapters 32 and 33;
2. Second speech is found in chapter 34;
3. Third speech is in chapter 35;
4. Final speech is in chapters 36 and 37.

Elihu communicated two points:
1. God disciplines a person to turn him from the error of his ways.
2. God governs justly. He is fair. He is sovereignly in control over all.

Swindoll's gives us some good insight:
1. In the first speech, Elihu could have summed up his thoughts like this:
God has not been silent, but His message is not as you had expected.
(Job 33:13-14)
God speaks in a dream or a vision of the night. (Job 33:15)
God speaks when we are sick. (33:19)
Could it be that in those days when God spoke through dreams and visions, He spoke directly to individuals in a supernatural manner, using a "mediating angel?" (33:23-26)
(I wonder if it was Jesus, before He took on the form of a man. As in Jacob's case when he wrestled with an angel all night. )
Was Job listening to what God was saying through his circumstances?
Are we listening?

2. The second speech Elihu gave addressed Job and the 3 men was because he refused to live on God's terms. Do you think He should start living on yours? You should be pushed to the wall and called to account for wickedly talking back to God the way you have. You compounded your sin by rebelling against God's discipline. Wow!
Do we live on God's terms or on our terms? By our rules or His?

LET IT GROW 

3. In his third speech, Elihu builds a case against those with impure motives (Job). He emphasizes that is the reason for God's silence. (35:12-16)
Do we do a motive check often? God looks upon the heart.

4. The final speech of Elihu has him making four good points:

1. God protectively watches over the righteous.
2. If the righteous commit a transgression, He let's them know they've done wrong.
3. If they respond to the rod of discipline, He restores them.
4. If they persist, they will surely suffer the consequences.

Finally someone gets it right. It's all about God.
Is He trying to remold us like a lump of clay? When we make a mess of our life of clay, does God give up on us? No. He keeps working on us.
Have we had our own ideas about how we should do things, act this way, be that, and if you don't then you are wrong and in big trouble dude. (Michelle on Full House used that phrase often. )
Instead of condemning the person, aren't we supposed to love them back to Jesus?
Ouch!

LET IT GO

Oh Lord Jesus, remold this messy lump of clay.
Change my heart God, too as I surrender to
Your will,
Your way,
Today,
I pray.

That Was Then, This is Now

O. T. 1154 "That Was Then, This is Now"
Feb. 20, 2018
Job 30-31
As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. 
Psalm 103:12

LET IT GLOW 

So last week I did everyday things like pouring a glass of milk, loading the dishwasher, and doing laundry. But this week is different. That was then; this is now.
I get on my knees to tip the milk jug so it pours into my glass, then push with my legs to get back up to standing. (My limit to lifting is 2 pounds.) Then I do squats to load the dishwasher. (Should have firmer leg muscles soon.) As for the laundry, again I was on my knees, sorting whites and colors into baskets. Then I had to give a refresher course of Laundry 101 to hubby as to which buttons to push. However, I neglected to tell him that to pull the knob so it begins the cycle. It presoaked for quite a while until he realized he had not put them into the dryer. I knew what happened so we probably have cleaner clothes than usual.
Things can change so quickly in a day's time. (My surgery was Friday. )It could be a phone call, a text, a visit. News can travel so fast now days, and boom, our life is different from the previous day. That's how it happened to our friend Job. After loosing everything, and covered with boils, he was visited by some friends. They shared their philosophy that all those troubles came to him due to some hidden sin. Job was a righteous man and continued to state his innocence.

Living in Job's now,

• he had no respect from younger men; (v. 9-10)
• he was an object of shame; (v. 15)
• he no longer had great blessings from God; (v. 17-22)
• no benevolence toward Job was returned to him after his previously giving to the needy (v.26-29).

Job's present misery was evident as his friends were unsympathetic and God remained silent. What trying times for Job! How will he ever survive?
He had no Psalms to read for comfort, no praise songs in the radio to uplift him, no Christian friends bringing him meals and encouragement.

LET IT GROW 

Job maintained his integrity through it all. In chapter 31, we read about his life:

• There was no lust,
• no lying,
• no adultery,
• no oppression,
• no lack of compassion,
• and no materialism. 

What a list. Job's heart cry is for his God to speak and judge him. What can we learn from this troubled friend, Job?
Swindoll's gives us 3 truths worth remembering:

1. Reflecting on past blessings gives us reasons to rejoice. 
2. Rehearsing present trials forces us to swallow our pride. 
3. Reaffirming our commitment to integrity strengthens us with confidence and courage. 

Is our integrity revealing that we do what is right?  And when we fail, we make it right? Without it we drift into compromise. With it we stand with confidence. Integrity helps us stand fast.

Like Job, I don't understand why I got in that physical condition, but David wrote in Psalm 103, I will bless the Lord and His holy name, forget none of His benefits, recall His compassion and grace, lovingkindness. He has removed my transgressions as far as the east is from the west.

Well my experience has certainly brought me to my knees. I need to be there more often and for other reasons-prayer and praising my God for life.

LET IT GO
Thank You Jesus for bringing my through surgery without any paralysis.
Thank You for your grace and mercy You show this sinner.
Help me keep growing in faith, trusting You in my now, for You were faithful in my then. 

Remember When

O. T. #1153  "Remember When"
Feb. 15, 2018
Job 29
Till I die I will not put away my integrity from me. I hold fast my righteousness and will not let it go.  Job 27:5-6

LET IT GLOW

What are some happy moments you remember? Was it graduations, weddings, birth of grandchildren, the dream job, a first house, and a heart filled with the love of Jesus when He first came into your life? What about unexpected gifts, winning a prize, a special trip, getting together with family, seeing old friends of long ago, hearing your favorite hymn? Can we add experiencing the hand of Jesus in our life? Job was recalling happier times in his life:

• when he walked and talked with God;
• as his 10 children were with him;
• material blessings;
• respect of those in the community;
• looked upon as one of the greatest men in the East;
• the power and prestige that people only dream of and never experience, but Job did.

As you though of those happy moments, did a smile come upon your face? Maybe a tear of joy rolled down your face, too. Can we stop and thank God for His protection, blessings, and love that never ends?

LET IT GROW

Job had not gained his former wealth by taking advantage of people, nor by dishonest ways. He didn't exploit the week or poor. This man had a moral and social conscience that most wealthy men do not have today.
Job was the defender, deliverer, liberator, advocate of the:

• poor (verses 12, 16);
• fatherless (verse 12);
• widow (verse 13);
• lame and blind (verse 15).

Not only was Job a friend to the most needy and defenseless of society, but at the same time, he opposed evil men and prospered. Job sat chief and dwelt as a king, even among the nobles of his people. (Falwell)

How inspirational Job's profile is. He loved the Lord most of all. He was such a giving person, overflowing with generosity, compassion, and wisdom. He did it all.

LET IT GO

Be more compassionate, generous, and giving.
Look for those in need of help and encouragement.

*Friends, I am having surgery this morning, so I seek your prayers. The surgeon is removing a lipoma, a fatty tumor off my spine. Needless to say, I am antsy about its location. Isaiah 41:10 came along so I'm not going to fear nor be anxious. My God will strengthen me and help me and uphold me.

VALENTINE'S DAY 2018

It is a day set aside for us to go all out in showing our love to others. Found throughout the New Testament, the word love is called philadelphia, the brotherly love (kindness). We find it numerous times in scriptures such as Titus 2 and 3; in Paul's writings of 1 Timothy 4:9, Romans 12:10, 1 Thess. 4:9.
How will we show lovingkindness to others today?

And then there is the word for love, which is found mostly in the 4 gospels-agapao, meaning to love (in a moral and social sense). Matthew 5:23-26, Mark 12:30-33, Luke 6:27-35, John 14. The disciple John wrote about love in his three books, 1,2,and 3 John.

How can we show moral and social love today? Will we do the right thing?

In Psalm 119, David spoke of loving exceedingly God's name, commands, precepts, law, and testimonies. Will we be like David?

And then there is the ultimate love of God toward us. How did God demonstrate love? He gave His only Son, Jesus to die so we can have everlasting life. (John 3:16) That is the highest form of love, don't you think?

Jesus said in John 15:9, As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue in My love.

It can't get any better, folks.
May you have a lovely day. May the love of Jesus pour down on you and show you with blessings overflowing.
Linda

Need Wisdom and Understanding?

O. T. #1152 "Need Wisdom and Understanding?"
Feb. 12, 2018
Job 28
And to man He said, "Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; And to depart from evil is understanding. Job 28:28

LET IT GLOW

We previously learned about the first three of five priorities in Job's life, according to Swindoll:

1. Thinking God's thoughts is the highest goal.
2. Walking in integrity is the only way to live.
3. Wrong will occur but it will not ultimately triumph.

In this chapter, the remaining two are:
      4. Seeking wisdom through human effort is a waste of time. You can dig the earth, probe outer
          space, even study nature, nor get the highest education, but wisdom will not be found in all  
          those.
What is wisdom? It is looking at life from God's point of view. Viewing a situation as God sees it. If we think God's thoughts, we can interpret current events as God would.
Understanding is responding to life's struggles and challenges as God would have us respond. We do not compromise our integrity. We don't respond by human impulses, nor in a way that is politically correct.

Are we seeking God's wisdom and understanding today?

LET IT GROW

Where is wisdom and understanding found? According to Job, they are found  in the fear of God. (verse 28)
We have an awesome respect for God accompanied by a personal hatred for sin. (Swindoll)

Solomon wrote in Proverbs 9:10, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Job's fifth priority is:
      5. Cultivating a healthy and holy fear of the Lord gives us wisdom and understanding.
The greater the suffering, the better we determine what really matters. Suffering helps us clarify our priorities and focus on the right objectives.

Are we in need of some wisdom and understanding? Seek the Lord Jesus for answers. Stay close to Him, even in the midst of trials and suffering. Surrender to His will for His glory.

LET IT GO

Surrender today.
How does God see this?
How can I best respond so I am pleasing to Him?

Licking Wounds

O. T.  1151 "Licking Wounds"
Feb. 12,2018
Job 27

LET IT GLOW

When an animal gets a sore or injury, it licks its wound to keep it clean and help it get well, over and over. We often do the same, only figuratively. We cry, grumble, share it, but not allowing the Great Physician to heal our wounds.

Suffering is a friend. It helps us refocus on things that really matter. When flat on our backs, the only way to look is up. Job stopped licking his wounds. He looked past all the criticism, then began to be preoccupied with thoughts of God:


1. The God who lives-v 2
2. The breath of God-v3
3. The giver of life-v8
4. The God who hears-v9
5. The Almighty God-v10
6. Powerful God-v11
7. A Giving God-v13 (Swindoll)

Job's view of God kept him going. Does He give a purpose for you and me to get up every day?

LET IT GROW

Job is bankrupt, childless, friendless, diseased, and misunderstood. He was blamed for secret sins and rejected by those who once highly respected him. How in the world does he go on?

We can learn from Job's highest priorities:
.Thinking God's thoughts is our highest goal.
.Walking in integrity is the only way to live.
.Wrong will occur but it will not ultimately triumph. (Swindoll)

Are we memorizing God's Word so we can apply it to our situation or need?
Are we controlling the strongest muscle in our body-the tongue?

LET IT GO

Trust in Almighty God today.
Lean upon the Giving God.
Have a verse to focus on as I go through today.
Walk in integrity.
His love is amazing, steady and unchanging. His love carries me.

Hey ya'll I'm in San Antonio for the weekend at a business conference. See ya Monday
Have a blessed weekend.
Heehaw.
Linda

A Know It All?

O. T. 1150. "A Know It All?
Feb. 8,2018
Job 26

LET IT GLOW

Does someone's face come into your mind when you hear the term "know-it-all? They have an answer for everything and want you to know it. And they tell it as fact, not opinion. I find it rather difficult to keep my mouth shut after so long a conversation. Will they think I am stupid? Isn't my opinion important?  Did Job feel that way?  I think he had enough by this time.

Bildad wrapped things up when he ended his last speech to Job with the analogies of maggot and worm, didn't he? Now Job gives them his nineth speech to these guys. He begins with sarcasm of how they have helped him, but then he gets serious when speaking about God. God is Creator (El Elyon), Sustainer of life, and Most High God (El Shaddiah). He speaks of the power of God in creating. Isn't it amazing that Got "let it be" and it happened? With the millions of galaxies and our earth hanging on His everword. May we never loose sight of the greatness of our God.

God is in control of every bit of it all. He knows all about it and takes full responsibility for all of it. That's not to say He's not in touch, doesn't have a plan. There are times He doesn't reveal everything. Can that give us reassurance and peace of mind?

LET IT GROW

Who of us can understand all things that happen in life?  Can we be humble in saying, " I don't know"? Job knew he didn't know it all. So he was able to endure it all because God is our all.
So, are we willing to adjust our life to His choices for us, to listen, to learn, to adapt to His leading wherever it may go whether we are comfortable, happy, or healthy? That is obedience.

Is Job beginning to get it when he wisely asks, "Who can understand?"
Will the church of this generation keep a high opinion of God? Or will it only consider Him a buddy?
Will we continue to worship and serve Him as the Most High God?

LET IT GO

How great is our God. How amazing is my God. He is wonderful. He is awesome. He is Almighty God. My Creator, Redeemer, and Savior. Forever.

Just a Worm

O. T. #1149  "Just a Worm"
Feb. 7, 2018
Job 25

LET IT GLOW

Bildad's brief and final speech refers to God being all powerful, yet man is as valueless as a (worm) maggot, in His presence. However, the value of man to God is seen in the atonement. (D. Jeremiah)

Bildad was saying that God was majestic and exulted, and man was sinful, especially Job. (MacArthur)

Paul wrote in Romans 11:33 about our Lord God, Oh, the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!

Not only is God loving and merciful, but He is so very deep that He is so beyond our understanding. Don't we want to be able to explain everything about God, interpret all His ways, and understand His workings? Friend, we just cannot analyze the whatever in our life. Do we see the whole story? Do we have His wisdom?

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours. He is so infinite and vast, while we are finite and small. Consider this:
If it were possible to travel the speed of light (186,000 miles per second), we would arrive at the moon in 1 1/3 seconds. Continuing at that same speed, it would take you 4 years to reach the closest star. It takes 8 minutes and 17 seconds for light to reach the earth from the sun. Traveling the speed of light, it would take us 25,000 years to reach the nearest galaxy from earth (Canis Major Dwarf Galaxy). (Unknown)

Wow! My little mind cannot comprehend all that is out there in space. Truly, God is great!

LET IT GROW

God is more glorious than the moon,
He shines brighter than the stars.
In comparison, people are maggots;
We mortals are mere worms. 
Job 25:5-6 NLT

Bildad adds nothing new to this discussion of the men. Since God is so mighty, and man is but a worm, in comparison, how does Job dare to stand before God and claim to be clean? Even the stars could not make such a claim.

I say, being compared to a worm is definitely humbling. Such a worm as I. Before Jesus saving me, I had no holiness or righteousness in me, for it all comes from God.

Lest we end on a low note, consider Psalm 29:11, The Lord will give strength unto His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.

Well, so long to Job's three friends. Next we will hear from Job and Elihu.

LET IT GO

                               ... of sin, so I am not low as a worm.
                               ... of pride and bow before King Jesus.
                               ... and trust God's wisdom and knowledge and purposes.

Crossing the Line

O. T. #1148  "Crossing the Line"
Feb. 6, 2018
Job 24
Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.  Job 13:15a

LET IT GLOW

Our dear Job continues to suffer while he listens to these guys trying to condemn him into repenting of a secret sin which caused all of Job's sufferings. In the meantime, Job is persistent in declaring he is innocent, which we know to be true. Why don't these guys pack it up and go to the house? Hasn't Job gone through enough without their critical and uncaring words?

So far, Job has kept his faith. We know this by the things he says:

• After the trial is over, and God has accomplished His purpose within me,  I will come forth as pure as gold.
• I'm unable to understand God, but I will trust in Him.
• He performs what is appointed for me.
• I am unable to justify the permissions of God, but I trust Him. (Swindoll)

Job is unable to explain the "why's" of life, especially those he has. Through it all, Job is trusting his God. He lists the wrongs, failures, and injustices which occur in the country and the city and the wicked ways of the evil ones. Still, in the midst of the bad things, God does not step in and stop them, but permits them to happen. He permits hardships and sufferings for reasons unknown to us.  Job says that it is by God's permissive will these things continue. We can't explain it. Only God knows the "why."

Sometimes the wicked are not punished in this world, but their sins will be rectified. The immoral and unethical crimes will one day have their hour of vindication and retribution. Let us seek peace and love and comfort in Jesus as we carry on in the midst of ugly happenstance as Job.

LET IT GROW

According to Swindoll, the major message Job leaves us is fairly obvious by now:
Even though God is elusive and mysterious, strange and silent, invisible and seemingly passive, He is trustworthy.
Three lessons for us include:

1. Resist the temptation to explain everything; God knows.
2. Focus on the future benefits, not the present pain; God leads.
3. Embrace the sovereignty of the Almighty God; God controls.

God knows, leads, and controls all. Are we trusting in the trustworthy One? Will we trust His timing for retribution?
Webster's Dictionary defines trustworthy  as worthy of confidence, dependable.

Is our God worthy of our confidence? Is He dependable? " Of course He is," we would answer. But do we draw a line as to how far we will go with Him? If He crosses that line, do we stop trusting in God? Don't do this, don't take that, or I will turn away from serving You??? Will we serve God wholeheartedly or conditionally? Is conditional love really love?

Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3:1, To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.
In verse 11, we are assured, He hath made every thing beautiful in his time.

Does God's grace lead us home?  Does grace lead us to be still and listen to Him? to know He is God and we are not. When we are in the hard times and in the easy times, God is trustworthy.

LET IT GO

Stop putting conditions on my serving God.
Trust in the trustworthy God wholeheartedly.
Let His praise forever be on my lips.

Overcomer

O. T. #1147  "Overcomer"
Feb. 5, 2018
Job 23

LET IT GLOW

Don't quit; don't give in; you're an overcomer. I like that song. Are we an overcomer? No matter what life or evil throws at us, we still stand strong. No matter the tests God puts us through, we don't crumble and turn away from Him. Stand strong in our faith, strong in our convictions, faithful in our calling. I really would like to be that way, but friends, I have yet to reach the place Job was spiritually. How about you?

Let's look at some things Job has to say which are found in verses 10-14 NLT:
But He knows where I am going.
And when He tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.
For I have stayed on God's paths;
I have followed His ways and not turned aside.
I have not departed from His commands,
but have treasured His words more than daily food.
But once He has made His decision, who can change His mind?
Whatever He wants to do, He does.
So He will do to me whatever He has planned.
He controls my destiny.

Be assured, God knows where we are on this bumpy road called life. We may experience some of Job's difficulties, but usually not all at the same time as he did. They may be spread out over a lifetime. Loosing loved ones, loosing a job, a house, our retirement, our savings; they may vanish suddenly or gradually.
The question is, "Do we desire what God does?" Is His path ours? Are we on His path that He has mapped out for us so we can accomplish His will? If so, then shall we be an overcomer today?



LET IT GROW

There are a couple of things Job says that should be noted. (This is his eighth speech, his third reply to Eliphas.)
1. Say what you wish, guys, but God knows the way I take. After this trial is over, and God has
     accomplished His purpose in my life, then I will come out as pure as gold.
    When we come out of the fiery trials, we may smell like smoke, but the impurities will be burnt off
     of our life. We may even have something that remains with us as a reminder, like Paul. Let the
     divine  filter bring us out a pure as gold. May we shine with Jesus.
2. God knows the way I'm taking, the path I am on.
    It was a lonely one, for Job lost his 10 children and his wife encouraged him to curse God and die.
    Whacky friends were not comforting, but judgmental. God is fully aware of what is happening to
     us. He is completely in charge. Are we holding fast to His path?
3. I'm unable to understand the plan of God, but I trust Him. As God's plan unfolds, I still don't
    understand it, so I have to trust God.
    God doesn't ask us permission to do what He does. More times than not, we have no preview,
    either. No explanation, no ending revealed, no length of time assured. so are we keeping our feet
    on the path of faith He has for us? Are we willing to wait out the storm and serve Him in the
    meantime? Is His Word a treasure in our heart?
4. He performs what is appointed for me. It was my destiny.
    We have imperfections. We need to loose things like temper, giving up, weaknesses in
    temptations. Though we may be in the dark about things happening, in a dry spell, and silence with
    God, we know He is there with us. Surely tough times will not last forever. If they do, then heaven
     is just a breath away.
[Resource: Job, A Man of Heroic Endurance, by Charles R. Swindoll]


LET IT GO

Put off what hinders me and run the race of faith.
Stay on the path God has put me on.
Watch for the curves.
Life my destiny-an overcomer.

    

Grace Under Pressure

O. T. #1146  "Grace Under Pressure"
Feb. 2, 2018
Job 22

LET IT GLOW

Here is round three with Eliphaz. Why don't Job's critics back off? Quit treating him like trash. Stop telling him off. We know that Job does no deserve all those trashy, judgmental, finger-pointing accusations.
Job had a pure character and was a righteous man. Satan pick Job out and wanted to bring him down, proving his hypocrisy, persuading him to curse God. But it didn't happen whenever Job lost his health, wealth, home, and family. Then three so called friends came to comfort Job. Even after sitting quietly with Job for 7 days, they could not keep their mouth shut any longer. The Lord allowed these false accusations to continue. He knew Job could withstand it all. Job was a man of maturity and integrity. His life was the opposite of what he was being accused of being. Eliphaz continued to slice and dice Job like a potato.

Job sat patiently and listened to Eliphaz's long-winded speech. he doesn't attempt to set the man straight, a question, nor attempt to defend himself. Job models grace under pressure, as we will read about in the next chapter.

Does anyone find it hard to keep your mouth shut when false accusations come, like I do? I need more grace when under pressure.

LET IT GROW

Swindoll gives us the three critical statements Eliphaz gives Job:

1. You are suffering because you have sinned. (verses 1-11)
2. You're a hypocrite because you've hidden your sins. (verses12-20)
3. You need to repent because your sins are obvious to us. (verses 21-30)

Hey, haven't we heard this twice before from this man? Job lost everything, not because he was sinful. Yet, Job demonstrates grace under pressure by not uttering a word. Job is a hypocrite? He's confessed everything.

Can you hear the if and when statements Eliphaz said? If Job would yield, receive instruction, take His words into his heart, return to God, remove unrighteousness,
then the Almighty will be your gold and choice silver to you. You will pray and He will hear you. When you are cast down, you will speak with confidence. The humble person God will save.

Those things are true, but Job is not in need of them right now. Are we in need of them? There have been times that I was needing to do what Eliphaz told Job to do. And then again, there have been times that I was in Job's situation, suffering for righteousness.

LET IT GO

Repent of my sins.
Pray.
Be humble.
Let God be my confidence.

Confrontation of Accusastion

O. T. #1145  "Confrontation of Accusation"
Feb. 1, 2018
Job 21

LET IT GLOW
verses 17-22)
Zophar's accusations were insulting, exaggerated, and inappropriate. Job needed to confront his accusations and deny his lies. And that Job did do. Right off, he told Zophar to listen to him, bear with him, and look at him. Apparently the three critics were lecturing into space and not directly to Job's face. Most of the time accusers go behind our back, not spilling their words to our face.

Job answers Zophar with three questions:

1. Who says the wicked always die young? (verses 7-16) If that is the case, then why do so many continue on, becoming more powerful? They really don't know God. Job's not wicked, he is sick. No one knows why. He certainly wasn't in the category of the wicked.
2. Where's the proof that the godless always suffer calamity? (verses 17-22) The person who does wrong and is not judged immediately or calamity befalls him, then he keeps on doing wrong. They're getting away with the sin leads to more sin. Why can't the wicked prosper and the godly suffer? The wealthy can be godly and the poor can be wicked.
3. How can you say that death always falls hard on the wicked? (verses 23-26) Eventually, death comes to all people, whether they are old or young, rich or poor, godly or wicked.

Job accuses Zophar of falsehood, which means treachery or fraud in the Hebrew.

He was accusing Job of things which were just not true. Zophar needed to hear the truth.
Do we know folks who have made up their mind about theology and do not consider they were taught a falsehood? do we recognize a falsehood?

LET IT GROW

Swindoll gives us 4 responses we can learn from Job's answers:

1. Listen to what is being said, considering the character of the critic. Stay calm. don't jump in and react. Calmly take it in.
2. Respond with true facts and accurate information knowing the nature of your accuser. Don't react or ponder ways to retaliate. Stay with the truth.
3. Use examples that represent reality and balance, trusting your defense to the Lord. Lean hard. Leave the defense of your character in the Lord's hand. Our mind relaxes, our emotions settle down, and our inner peace returns when we lean hard on our God.
4. Refuse to let the accusations discourage and derail you, remembering they are nonsense and lies. Get tough. Going through hard times requires a get-tough mind-set.

Toughen our hid so we don't cave in while waiting on God's revenge given for us. Let us not be guilty of spreading rumors, lies, and slander against another.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any harmful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.  Psalm 139:23-24

LET IT GO

Pray for wisdom and grace in responding to false accusations.
Ask God for the truth.