Central Truth

Current circumstances are not always a result of our own actions. Many times things happen in our lives that are not always understood until we have grown closer to God or have learned the important lesson He meant for us.

Reflections

Have you ever listened to a friend tell you about the terrible circumstances in his or her life and in the back of your mind wondered what part of the story they were leaving out? Many times I’ve thought that surely they must have done something to get themselves in the mess they are in. 

In Job 22, Eliphaz, a “friend” of Job’s, accuses him of misdeeds to convince Job that his current trials are a result of sin in his life. Eliphaz even made up things that Job must have done to deserve his misfortune! It’s important to note that in the beginning of Job in verse 1:8b, God describes Job to Satan as “[b]lameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” In light of this truth, what had Eliphaz based his accusations on in verses 22:4-9? In addition, why was Job experiencing this suffering?

In my walk with God, I have to be very careful about thinking 1) I know what God is up to, or 2) I understand the reasons why certain things happen. Many times God doesn’t reveal His plans in our lives until later. There are plenty of examples in Scripture of people that faced trials that were not a direct result of their own actions. Job is one, Paul is another, and Jesus Christ is another. Each of these men faced trials that were not deserved. The good news is in how the story ends. Christ suffered immensely, even to death, and rose from the dead. He is our Savior. Through Paul’s sufferings and missions he reached thousands and thousands of people with the gospel and expanded the church throughout Europe. And Job’s story . . . you’ll have to stay tuned.  

We have many examples of how God’s sovereignty works for good, even in terrible circumstances. We also have God’s promises through His Word to rely on when we face our own trials. 

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Discussion Questions

1.      How do you counsel others when they come to you with their trials?

2.      Who or what do you turn to during your own trials and why?

3.      What other promises has God made that give us hope when we face trials in life?