None of us knows what will come our way by way of circumstances this year! I know that I don’t. The Bible says “no one knows what a day may bring forth.” (Proverbs 27.1) I was so impressed this morning by the example of Job in Job 1.13-22 in his response to horrific circumstances that came his way.
Job’s family was enjoying a time of celebration. Suddenly one messenger after another appeared with terrible news (four in all). By the time the last had arrived Job had lost everything … even his beloved children!! Job’s response to this terrible situation was exemplary… He first of all poured out his heart in an authentic expression of grief! Then he fell to the ground in worship saying, “I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away. Praise the name of the Lord!”
Then what follows is this telling commentary: “In all of this Job did not sin by blaming God!”
Here is my prayer at the beginning of this year: If difficult and terrible circumstances come my way, O Lord, please give me the grace to express my grief sincerely, to worship you authentically, and the wisdom to not blame you bitterly in what I am experiencing!
Coffee With The Lord 