Day 144

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Job Praying for Comfort!

Scripture

May 23—Job 20-21: Job's Second Answer from Zophar

Observation

Zophar, who specializes in easy answers to difficult questions, now levels his second barrage against Job. He paints a vivid and gruesome picture of the fate of the wicked man in the hands of a holy God. If what Zophar says is true, Job's life certainly provides Exhibit A. But as Job points out, it isn't always true! Some wicked men live long and virtually painless lives! They are happy, well fed, and at ease with life. They seem to prosper with impunity despite their godless lifestyle. The wicked are mighty this side of the grave but then comes the destruction of God. Thus there is little in Zophar's words to bring comfort to the grieving Job.

Application

Are you experiencing feelings of jealousy toward someone who seems to be "getting away with murder"? Then consider this: It is God who allows the wicked to prosper temporarily. He withholds his punishment (21:9); he places prosperity in their hand (21:16); he allows their family, field, and flock to prosper (21:8-11).

The prosperity of the wicked drives them far from God. They do not desire to know him (21:15), in spite of his blessing in their lives.

The destruction of the wicked, though postponed, is certain. Prosperity now will give way to calamity in the future, when the eye of the wicked shall see his own destruction and anger (21:20).

God's love is nowhere more clearly visible than in his longsuffering toward those who deserve his punishment. Is that your attitude as well? Make these words your marching orders today: "Love cures people—both the ones who give it and the ones who receive it."

Prayer

By meditating on your Word and keeping it in our hearts, we can know what your will is. We want to be in your presence at all times, so that we can do your will for example when our friends counsel is comfortless we will know silence is golden for you are with us. In Jesus name, amen!

Silence is Golden: Pray Instead!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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