Central Truth

When everything in this world is against you, God is always there.

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Reflections

Have you ever felt like everything in life was going wrong? That circumstances or people were stacked up against you? I know I have. Early in our marriage, we had our stability fractured. After we purchased our first home and were expecting our first child, the company I worked for announced they were shutting down their Texas office. Being only a year out of college, I did not have many contacts within the business world. Everyone I knew was in the same boat I was. I became worried and stressed from the financial commitments, expected baby, and lack of job security. I turned to God. I knew He was my only true security. I totally depended on Him. We continued to be faithful to Him in our offerings and trusted He had a plan for us. He provided for us in amazing ways that were beyond anything I could have imagined. He allowed me to be one of the last two employees in the office (which covered the insurance for our new baby), provided a new job starting a week after I lost my old one, and provided unexpected funds to supply during my transition.

Job felt this way also. Everything and everyone was against him. No one was there to aide him, defend him against false accusations, or help him in his time of need. He petitioned to God for his security and justice. God is our our solid rock, fortress, defender, deliverer, and savior. He never changes and is always here for us. Job knew that God is the only one he could turn to that could deliver him from his plight. Even if it meant death (Job 17:13), Job believed God would take care of him. As we go through life's good times, God is there. When we go through difficult situations, God is there. When we go through death and pain, God is there. We may not always understand the circumstances, but God is always there.

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Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever experienced a difficult trial and seen God's provision? Praise God for it and tell others your testimony of
His security and love.

2. Do you worry about what others think or about your life circumstances ? Confess your worry to God and ask for His help in developing a trust in Him.

3. How do you react to a friend in need? Do you "have their back?" 

4. Are you prepared for death like Job? Do you depend on God's promise of Christ? Read John 3:16 and celebrate God's grace and the security of salvation through the cross.

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