You would plunge me into a slime pit so that even my clothes would detest me. Job 9:31
I have daughters. I endured the slime stage, buying gallons of glue and colored sparkles, praying my kitchen would soon recover. And I have heard my jeans groan and curse, “For the love of all things good, woman, eat a salad!” But that might be where my similarities to Job of the Bible end. And yet, there are things happening that seem unreal, unfair, and harsh.
I hate to be vague, but it’s not my story to tell. And yet I’m on this life-altering roller coaster with those I love. I’m waiting for word and crying the tears and taking pills so I can sleep. I’m supporting and loving in inadequate ways and hitting my knees over and over until I no longer know what to pray. Like no other time in recent years I am racing to spend time with God every day because I don’t know what else to do. And that time lead me to the book of Job this week.
To summarize the story of Job (Did you know you can SparksNotes stories of the Bible? Who knew?), this wealthy, righteous man was tortured by Satan to prove his faithfulness to God. In the course of one day, Job receives word that his livestock, servants and all 10 children have died. He then loses his own health as he breaks out in painful, disgusting sores from head to toe.
As the story progresses and Job endures his many hardships, he is quoted as saying, “I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” (Job 3:26). And “For sighing has become my daily food; my groans pour out like water.” (3:24). “When I lie down I think, ‘How long before I get up?’ The night drags on, and I toss and turn until dawn.” (7:4) Poor guy didn’t have access to Ambien. “Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.” (7:11)
Maybe you don’t consider yourself blameless like Job (I know I don’t!), and maybe you haven’t lost EVERYTHING. But can you relate to any of these things he said? Sleepless nights, no appetite, bitterness, turmoil in your spirit? Any similar feelings? Me too. And yet after everything, Job still acknowledges God with praises. “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” (33:4) “God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.” (37:5)
Perhaps the most encouraging part of Job’s experience is his confession of the deeper knowledge and intimacy He enjoyed with God after having lost everything and experienced God’s faithfulness through to the other side. He says, “My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.” (42:5) “How great is God – beyond our understanding!” (36:26)
In the midst of Job’s heartache – before any earthly blessing was restored to him – he exclaimed, “I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.” (19:25) When all else slips away, we can cling to that.
And now for this week’s featured post!
Mini Delights by Jennifer of teawithjennifer.blog.
Most of us are so busy and distracted and noisy that I’m afraid we are forgetting how to relax, be with our own thoughts and even use our imaginations! Our relationships, creativity and attention spans are suffering. Jennifer doesn’t preach at your about it like I just did (good grief), but her short and sweet post may be just the mental vacation you need today. Hop on over to her sight and take a deep breath while you are there.
Now for this week’s link-up! Let’s bless and encourage one another in our walk with the Lord.
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It is amazing the comfort we can find in the book of Job. There I find myself reminded that He is God alone and I am not. May you also cling to God in this difficulty, with the confidence that He is faithful and He hears your prayers. Blessings!
Thank you, Joanne.
This was so encouraging to me today, Lauren! It’s been a lonnnngggg week here, and remembering Job put it all in perspective. Thanks for bringing the Word to life, and thanks for encouraging a weary mama today!
I’m so glad it was encouraging to you, Stacey. And thank you for encouraging me by saying so!
Lauren, I don’t know what you are going through but I’d venture to say “I’ve been there.” All I know to say to you? Is don’t let go of the horns of the altar. Breakthrough will take place. Prayers.
Even if you haven’t been through the same thing, we all suffer. Your prayers are so appreciated.
Thank you Lauren for featuring my post! I feel very honored to have been chosen.
Sorry to hear you are walking through a hard time with loved ones. Rest assured He is there in the midst of this situation & His will for them will bring great blessings…
Bless you,
Jennifer
I was so pleased to feature you. And thank you for the encouragement.
Lauren, I’m so sorry to hear that you are going through such a difficult time. But how good, how incredibly good, that we can say with Job, “I know that my Redeemer lives!” And like Job and James both understood, we can count it all joy knowing that the testing of our faith produces endurance. Praying for you right now.
Thank you for the prayers, Donna. It means so much.
Job can seem like a difficult read but the hope that prevails is worth the read. Thank you for sharing a few of your own struggles. Please know I am praying for you.
Thank you for your prayers, Mary. I really appreciate it.
Praying that your loved one will find healing and wholeness soon. I’m also in the season for praying for someone dear who is going through such a hard time. 🙁 Yes, God is good…but life is still hard.
Thank you, Lisa. Praying for you as well.
God IS good, Lauren! Thanks for hosting the linkup.
Thank you for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
Thank YOU for hosting, Patsy.
Lauren, I do admire your willingness to share your struggles and vulnerabilities. What a beautiful testament to your faith and such an inspiration as well. On a lighter note, I did have a good chuckle about “poor guy didn’t have Ambien.” I hope you find your equilibrium and peace, my friend. Thanks for sharing and linking up.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Thanks for your encouragement, as always, Shelbee.
Thank you so much for sharing with #globalblogging x
Thanks for reading, Tracey.
Everything is very open with a very clear description of the issues. It was really informative. Your website is very helpful. Many thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Yevette!