Job 23 & 24: Gold
Verse of the Day: (23:10) But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
1. Gold (23:1-17)
Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. (23:12)
Gold is precious and expensive because it is a rare commodity. When Job inspired by the Holy Spirit mentioned that God knew what he was going through, he actually knew to a certain extent that God was testing his faith. Though Job lamented the great suffering that God had afflicted him, yet in his heart He knew that God was working in his life. In fact, during this difficult time, he kept listening to what God had to say to him, and hence drew closer to Him than ever before. Indeed, we are closer to God during the trials of our life as we desperately need Him to comfort us. This is why the trial of our faith is more precious than the gold that perishes, as it truly authenticates our dependence on God. God’s ultimate goal is for us to testify His greatness and goodness amid our sorrow and suffering so that all shall come to know that He is the true and living God. (1 Peter 1:6-9)
2. God (24:1-12)
Men groan from out of the city, and the soul of the wounded crieth out: yet God layeth not folly to them. (24:12)
Job cried out to God as to why He did not judge and punish the wicked who deceived and oppressed the weak and the helpless, and took every opportunity to enrich themselves at the expense of others including the poor and the needy. He was at his wit’s end as it seemed that God was not judging them, and that they could get away with their crimes and wickedness. Indeed, though the wicked may not be punished in this world, yet one day God shall punish them in hell. Though the righteous may suffer now, yet one day they shall enjoy heaven with God. Indeed, blessed are they who trust and obey God for they shall have the right to the tree of life and be with Him forever. (Revelation 22:1-21)
3. Good (24:13-25)
He evil entreateth the barren that beareth not: and doeth not good to the widow. (24:21)
Job mourned and groaned that God allowed the wicked to oppress the widow and the weak, while the righteous were crying out for help. However, let us know that all things work together for good to them who love God and are the called according to His purpose. God allows crises and challenges in our lives so as to strengthen and solidify our faith in Him, and that we shall eventually come forth as gold. Our present suffering is nothing compare to the glory that He shall reveal to us in His home in heaven. (Romans 8:18-39)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to endure my trial so that I shall come forth as gold.
