Turning Misery to Hope and Rest
By David A. Wheeler
Introduction
As Christians there is no Oath of
Commitment that you are required to take, but one requirement is the alignment
of heart. During this journey of life we
often ride the tide of our alignment, experiencing highs and lows. God is always faithful and steady, but often our
journey leads us to low points and challenges of our faith due to external
circumstances. For many the oppressive season
we are in right now is so great that even the strong in heart are being
challenged in their walk with Christ.
There is a remnant that remains strong and I believe one of the
sustaining factors for them is their hope and trust in God and their ability to
find rest. Over the last 9 months I
have been absorbed in Job 11:16-19. While
my studies have led me in many directions I find myself often returning to this
passage.
This is not a study of the life of
Job. I know many have taught from this
example of Scripture, but the intention here is to bring encouragement and
enlightenment to our current journey.
Many of us have heard the story of Job. He was the richest and most famous man of
his day. He was a righteous man
requiring no judgment from God regarding his life. He worshiped and loved God, yet in the first
few chapters of Job we are given a glimpse of a heavenly dialog between God and
Satan. In this Father filtered test Job
loses everything in just a few moments.
After the opening chapters we are drawn into a 9 month soul searching
experience of a man trying to understand all that has happened to him and grappling
with the question of “Why me?” After
over 30 chapters of heart and character examination, listening to a nagging
wife and getting counsel from three friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar) we
see God showing up and answering Job’s questions (please read my note “Who God
Is!” for further insight to the end of the book of Job).
I have heard many teach over the years
and share the idea that everyone has a “Job Experience.” I am not one who believes that this is
true. Many may want to explain their
difficulty, calamity and loss as a “Job Experience”, but I believe the book of
Job is here to warn us of the pitfalls of the “Woe is me” attitude. Sure, life is not void of calamity and loss
but I believe the book of Job is here to help us quickly move to the point of
realizing and embracing who God is and that we do not have to endure 9 months
of loss and grief. When these
difficulties do come we must quickly place ourselves in a position of hope and
rest in our total dependence on God, recognizing His Character and His desire
to be enthroned in our lives.
Job received counsel from three
friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and here in chapter 11, Zophar. Zophar’s counsel was not all correct and
good, but the latter part of Job 11 we begin to get to the good. It is almost prophetic. If Job had heeded these words we may not have
had the twenty or so chapters that follow of Job’s continued lament. Here in the early chapters of Job’s bewail we
find Zophar’s statements that should encourage Job to move past his loss and
embrace hope and rest in God. In verse
13 of Job 11 we read:
Job
11:13:
13If you set your heart aright and stretch out your hands to [God],
13If you set your heart aright and stretch out your hands to [God],
The phrase, “to stretch out your hands
to God” is an encouragement from 2 Chronicles 30:8, which reads
2
Chronicles 30:8:
8Now be not stiff-necked, as your fathers were, but yield yourselves to the Lord and come to His sanctuary, which He has sanctified forever, and serve the Lord your God, that His fierce anger may turn away from you.
8Now be not stiff-necked, as your fathers were, but yield yourselves to the Lord and come to His sanctuary, which He has sanctified forever, and serve the Lord your God, that His fierce anger may turn away from you.
While Zophar is operating under the
belief that God is angry with Job, the encouragement in essences is good and
basically says to put yourself in covenant with God or align yourself to God’s
heart and desires for you. Whenever we
are tossed in our journey and seem to have lost everything and even feel that
God may be angry with us it is good for us to be reminded of our covenant God
and to align our hearts with His. Walk with
me now as we examine further some of Zophar’s counsel.
Job 11:16-19:
16For you shall forget your misery; you shall remember it as waters
that pass away.
17And [your] life shall be clearer than the
noonday and rise above it; though there be darkness, it shall be as the
morning.
18And you shall be secure and feel confident
because there is hope; yes, you shall search about you, and you shall take your
rest in safety.
19You shall lie down, and none shall make you
afraid; yes, many shall sue for your favor.
Forget the misery
For man the study of the human brain
and long term memory has suggested that our experiences are permanently
recorded. Often the statement in science
is that nothing is forgotten only the means of retrieval is lost. We know that often our memories are triggered
by something someone says or does that allows the recall of events in our past. These flashbulb memories are often major
events in life such as 9/11 and the last shuttle launch. We know that through hypnosis one can often
recall at great detail events of their past.
We know from Wilder Penfield’s studies that long term memory exist. His life was devoted to finding scientific
proof of the existence of the human soul.
Penfield was a groundbreaking surgeon who mapped areas of the brain and through
electro stimulation of the frontal lobes of the brain produced memory recall in
his patients. These advancements are
still widely used today in the medical field treating illnesses like
epilepsy. While much scientific work is
being done to prove how and what memories are created and retained, there is no
dispute that the human brain is a marvelous organ and man has yet to discover
how and what it retains. For many of us,
we often forget the things we want to remember and remember the things we want
to forget. We have little choice in this
issue of memory and recall.
Remembrance is choice for God. There are numerous times within the
Scriptures where people in various states of turmoil and strife thought God had
forgotten them. But, Hebrew 13:5 states
very clearly that God will not leave us helpless or forsake us!
Hebrews
13:5:
5Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]
5Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]
We know also that the Promises of God
are all found in Christ! None of His
promises are untrue. While men may vary
and be fickle, God is sure and His Promises are sure to them that believe.
2
Corinthians 1:20:
20For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.
20For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.
The Promises of God comes when the
condition of our heart is aligned with Him.
In I Samuel, Eli and his sons were descendents of Aaron and the
Levitical line or Promise, but because of their unrepentive hearts and
continued defilement of the temple this Promise was removed.
1
Samuel 2:30:
30Therefore the Lord, the God of Israel, says, I did promise that your house and that of your father [forefather Aaron] should go in and out before Me forever. But now the Lord says, Be it far from Me. For those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.
30Therefore the Lord, the God of Israel, says, I did promise that your house and that of your father [forefather Aaron] should go in and out before Me forever. But now the Lord says, Be it far from Me. For those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.
While the promises of God are never
forgotten, they are not a simple incantation nor should we expect them to hold
true without our heart being aligned with His heart. Also, we see that God chooses to forget our
sin or “remember their deeds of unrighteousness no more,” when confessed, it is
cast into the depth of the sea.
Micah
7:19:
19He will again have compassion on us; He will subdue and tread underfoot our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
19He will again have compassion on us; He will subdue and tread underfoot our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
Hebrews
8:12:
12For I will be merciful and gracious toward their sins and I will remember their deeds of unrighteousness no more.
12For I will be merciful and gracious toward their sins and I will remember their deeds of unrighteousness no more.
Our forgiven sin is cast into the
depths of the sea. Not by the shore
where you could go fishing and catch it for yourself. Not by the shore so that it could wash up on
the beach for someone else to find, but it is cast into the depths of the sea
so that it will be buried eternally. Buried
in the depth of the sea much like the Egyptian army that chased Moses and the
children of Israel during their exodus our sin is buried never to be seen again
or chase us on our journey to the Promised Land. This forgiveness is not because we deserve
it, but is given by a merciful and gracious God. This is a full pardon and broad to cover
unrighteousness, sin and iniquities.
This pardon is sure and final that God will not remember these issues ever
again. This pardon cannot be
recalled. God does not just forgive our
sins He forgets them. This mercy is an
extension of all other spiritual mercies.
Unpardoned sin prevents mercy, and pulls down judgment, but the pardon
of sin prevents judgment and opens the doors for all spiritual blessings. This pardon is everlasting to
everlasting. There is nothing that can
compare to the extension of this mercy. It
is perfect! We have no reason to
complain or argue with this mercy. Our
only response should be that of lavishing our praise and thanksgiving on a
loving and merciful God. God has chosen
to remember our sin no more. Pause, give
God praise, for He has not only forgiven your sin, but forgotten it as
well.
So, in Job 11:16, we are encouraged to
forget our misery. Dwelling on misery
will lead us to expect more misery. A
community of misery is full of people who commiserate together. Often the company we keep encourages us to
stay focused on misery not the forgetting of our misery. We need to examine those around us. Are they joining our pity party or
encouraging us to move past our hurts, loss and misery? What company do you keep? Maybe no one wants to be around you because
all you discuss when with them is the misery in your life. Misery in itself can become very
comfortable. It gives us something to
talk about ourselves and invokes sympathy from those who hear it. Because of the voids in our lives we become
comfortable with the misery and the false community and intimacy it brings to
our lives. We become trapped because our
needs seem to be met, but only for brief moments of relief. Suddenly, we find ourselves and the misery
is still there. True freedom is
forgetting the misery and turning ourselves to hope and rest in God.
There is often a scene that plays in
our minds or is a common segment of a comedy show on television. The wife is pregnant nearing delivery or in
the delivery room. Suddenly, the
suggestion is made or the question is raised “Are you planning on having
more?” Because of the misery she is
currently experiencing her immediate response is “NO!!” Even if this question is asked too closely to
the recent delivery the immediate response is “NO!!” We can note here that often misery is
followed with great joy. The moment the
baby is delivered and placed on the mother’s chest for the first time the
misery of labor is forgotten and the embracing of life and something new
begins. Even later the forgetting of
the misery of the gestational period, labor and delivery there will be an
embrace of long held hope of having more children. When we are holding onto misery our lifelong
plans, purpose and direction can be held captive. The quicker we can forget the misery the
greater our chances of embracing the future.
John
16:21:
21A woman, when she gives birth to a child, has grief (anguish, agony) because her time has come. But when she has delivered the child, she no longer remembers her pain (trouble, anguish) because she is so glad that a man (a child, a human being) has been born into the world.
21A woman, when she gives birth to a child, has grief (anguish, agony) because her time has come. But when she has delivered the child, she no longer remembers her pain (trouble, anguish) because she is so glad that a man (a child, a human being) has been born into the world.
Job’s misery began with a whirlwind
(Job 1:19) and began to end from the midst of a whirlwind (Job 38:1).
Job
1:19:
19And behold, there came a great [whirlwind] from the desert, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young people and they are dead, and I alone have escaped to tell you.
19And behold, there came a great [whirlwind] from the desert, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young people and they are dead, and I alone have escaped to tell you.
Job
38:1:
1THEN THE Lord answered Job out of the
whirlwind and said,
When Job lost everything a whirlwind
was the culprit. Recent events in the
Midwest and South of tornados have given us a glimpse of what Job
experienced. In just a matter of minute
all he had produced, nurtured and cared for in his life was lost. Nine months of viewing and lamenting all that
was lost. Every day Job would look in
the direction of what once embodied his life achievements and see that it was
all gone. Men measure their worth in
what they have achieved. In just a
matter of moments we observe the giant of achievement disintegrate into nothing
but loss. Like a huge balloon in the
Macy’s Day Parade his life was deflated before him in just a matter of
minutes. Oh how crushing this must have
been. Now Job is sitting in his usual
place where he has been for nine months.
Sure others were around, but Job was still focused on his loss, his
misery. Then, just like on the dreadful
day, a whirlwind appears. I’m sure the
first thought of Job was, “it has come back to get me!” I’m sure fear filled his eyes as he gazed
ever so intently at the whirlwind now before him, but instead of it being a
whirlwind of destruction God began to speak.
In this moment, Job was focused on the method of delivery, the
whirlwind, than expecting God to speak.
Job had even cried several times for God to speak, his friends had
encouraged him that God would speak to him, yet all he could see was the
whirlwind (please read my note “Who God Is!” for further insight to the end of
the book of Job).
The other thing I find interesting
about the whirlwind at the beginning of Job’s troubles and the end is that what
consumes us and brings misfortune to us at the beginning of our misery, God
will possess and use for His good at the end.
Often we become so focused on the vehicle or instrument of destruction
and lose sight of God’s ability to utilize anything and everything for His
purpose. While it is never God’s
intention for us to suffer wrong we do live in an unregenerate world that we
trust will process or be compelled to work out the path of salvation. Upon Adam’s first sin in the garden the world
and all that is in it shifted from its creative state to a sin marked world now
needing to embrace redemption and full restoration. We must turn our hope toward Him who created
all things asking Him to restore and redeem areas of our lives in order for us
to find rest. While He never intended
for these wrongs to occur, He did promise that He would turn them for His good. This is a privilege of being in relationship
with a living God. Bottom line whatever
we face, God will use it to produce good things even if it just in our
soul. Either directly or indirectly,
every event has the inclination to produce spiritual good for those who love
God. Its purpose could be used to break
us from sin, bring us nearer to God, remove worldly thought or deed, or prepare
us for heaven. Bottom line God uses the
misery of this life to produce good.
Romans 8:28:
28We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.
28We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.
Psalm 57:2:
2I will cry to God Most High, Who performs on my behalf and rewards me [Who brings to pass His purposes for me and surely completes them]!
2I will cry to God Most High, Who performs on my behalf and rewards me [Who brings to pass His purposes for me and surely completes them]!
You Shall Remember it as Waters that Pass Away
Back
to Job 11:16, “…you shall remember it as waters that pass away.” Throughout the Scriptures water is often used
to symbolize the “Holy Spirit.” Again,
we see an encouragement for Job to look to God.
We need to always be ready for the Holy Spirit to come into our lives
and wash away all that troubles us. We
need to allow the presence of the Comforter to come and remove the misery of
this life. Water is the basis by which
all things are cleaned. We use water to
wash our dishes, cars and ourselves.
When bathing my children I would always declare “Final rinse!” to let
them know that we were almost done, but I would use just water to rinse all the
residue of dirt and soap from them.
When we cook we use water to wash and rinse the bowls and pans so that
they are ready to be used again. We must
allow the Holy Spirit to wash and rinse away the miseries of life in order to
be a vessel to be used again. When
rinsed with water the dirt, grime and cleanser is removed from us and goes down
the drain to never be seen again. If we
place a bottle in a moving river, soon it will be out of sight and we can
forget its existence. This is what
Zophar was trying to communicate to Job regarding his misery. Let it go.
Allow the waters to take it away.
Oh if we could just reach that moment of total surrender and allow the
Holy Spirit to wash away the misery of this life.
Your life shall be clearer
As we align our thoughts with God’s
thoughts, forget the misery and allow the Holy Spirit to wash the residue away
life becomes clearer. Noontime is the
brightest point of the day. You can
stand in one place and turn 360 degrees and there is no darkness. This is the encouragement given to Job. Life will become clearer than the noonday. At this point of the day there is no darkness
to be seen, all we see is light. This is
the moment we are totally surrounded by God, in His presence and all things are
under His revelation. When we step into
the noonday nothing can hide and we are completely eclipsed by Him who loves
us. We need to be surrounded by the God
of light. In Him all of our own
possessions, troubles and hopes are diminished and all that we see is God!
1 John 1:5 (Amplified
Bible)
5And this is the message [the message of promise] which we
have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no
darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].
Everywhere
you look there is light. In the noonday
of His presence is where clarity is found in His callings and purposes for our
lives. In the noonday of His presence is
where all blessings are made known to us.
In the noonday of His presence is where we find destiny. There are no mysteries.
Though There Be Darkness
From the very beginning God set in
motion the earth and separated light and darkness.
Genesis
1:4-5:
4And God saw that the light was good (suitable, pleasant) and He approved it; and God separated the light from the darkness.
4And God saw that the light was good (suitable, pleasant) and He approved it; and God separated the light from the darkness.
5And God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And
there was evening and there was morning, one day.
We never struggle when we lay down at
night regarding morning. We have full
confidence that the Sun will rise with light piercing the sky and darkness will
have to give way. This is an enduring
reminder that there may be darkness but morning always comes. The morning always comes. When calamity and loss invade our ranks we
must not be focused on the darkness, but set our focus on the morning that is
sure to come. With every cycle of the
earth morning comes. With every cycle of
life morning comes.
Many feel secure in the darkness. There they can remain hidden or keep others
from seeing who they really are. They
themselves do not have to face the truth of who they are. They look in the mirror and there is no
reflection of light because God may not be found in them. In the darkness many can stay consumed to
their mischief. In the darkness murder,
thievery, and all ills of the soul can be committed. In the darkness there is complete abandonment
and nothing compelling change because life is obscure. In the darkness all wickedness is
released. Much of this is true in
physical darkness, but many are captured by their misery and drawn into
spiritual darkness. Sin is good for a
season. There is pleasures found when we
are spiritually dark, but only temporarily provide relief to the true
need. Oh if those who are captured by
this darkness could get just a small glimmer of light and choose life and not
just life but abundant life the noonday light of His presence would consume
their misery and provide lasting light.
I remember several occasions of going
into the mountains and exploring the caverns, with a guide of course. Inevitably at some point in the venture we
would reach a point where the guide would extinguish all light. You’re encouraged to put your hand in front
of your face, but you can see nothing.
Then out of nowhere a cell phone would be activated or touched and light
would illuminate the entire space. This
little light would consume the darkness.
Our opportunities to be this little light are great in the season we are
in. If we could only find ourselves
aligned with His presence we could be this light to those around us. A small, seemingly insignificant light
shining and piercing the darkness of this life can brighten the souls of
men.
As the beauty of the sunrise that breaks
open the day we could impact our world whether personally or for others with
the marvelous hope of Christ and the rest in which he intends for us to
find. We have assurance of the morning
because God caused it to know its place.
Job 38:12-15:
12Have you commanded the morning since your days began and caused the dawn to know its place,
12Have you commanded the morning since your days began and caused the dawn to know its place,
13So
that [light] may get hold of the corners of the earth and shake the wickedness
[of night] out of it?
14It is
changed like clay into which a seal is pressed; and things stand out like a
many-colored garment.
15From
the wicked their light is withheld, and their uplifted arm is broken.
Since the beginning of time before
Adam and Eve and mankind graced this planet the morning has know its
place. Time is all relative and God’s
timing is perfect. He has set
appointments of events and the fulfillment of purpose and destiny in our lives.
Habakkuk
2:2-3:
2And the Lord answered me and said, Write the vision and engrave it so plainly upon tablets that everyone who passes may [be able to] read [it easily and quickly] as he hastens by.
2And the Lord answered me and said, Write the vision and engrave it so plainly upon tablets that everyone who passes may [be able to] read [it easily and quickly] as he hastens by.
3For the vision is yet for an appointed time and it hastens to the
end [fulfillment]; it will not deceive or disappoint. Though it tarry, wait
[earnestly] for it, because it will surely come; it will not be behindhand on
its appointed day.
The morning knows it’s appointed time
and when the morning comes light shakes out wickedness. It is like cockroaches when the light is
turned on they scurry to find darkness.
Wickedness cannot exist in the light of our savior and His
presence. Let the dawn of His presence
come and shake the wickedness out of your circumstances, your hopes and your
dreams. You will be free and feel
empowered and full of hope. There is no
need to focus or remain focused on the night.
We need to be focused on the morning!
God did not create you to be a nocturnal being. He created you to live in the marvelous light
of His presence.
1
Peter 2:9:
9But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
9But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
It is in the morning that we find His
mercy.
Lamentations
3:22-23:
22It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not.
22It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not.
23They are new every morning; great and abundant
is Your stability and faithfulness.
Secure and Feel Confident
As we continue our examination of Job 11, the Amplified version gives us this statement in verse 18, “And you shall be secure and feel confident…” Notice here that Confidence follows security. In training my children to ride the bike, like every parent, I had to first give them a bike with training wheels. Then the challenge would come that the training wheels would need to be removed and the child must learn to ride. So, the moment would come where the child is on the bike and I as their parent would grab the handle bar on one side and the back of the seat. The child would begin peddling and I running beside them would help them maintain their balance. Then at my sensing that their confidence was gaining, I would release the handle bar, but maintain a firm grip on the back of the seat. As confidence increased I would release the seat and the child’s first reaction would be to scream in excitement, “I’m doing it Daddy! I’m doing it!” This example rings true for us. That in order for our confidence to grow and increase we must first feel secure. Security is necessary for new believers to build confidence, but equally important for seasoned believers who are facing significant challenges.
We must find
security in our relationship with God.
Security formulated in the understanding that He is in control and that
we have not been forgotten. This
security can only be found and grasped in understanding and embracing God’s
Word. Many will speak to us, but we need
to hear directly from God, lead by the Holy Spirit which leads us to the truth
of what God’s thoughts are towards us.
John
1:1:
1IN THE beginning [before all time] was the
Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself.
In His Word we find security of love,
hope and acceptance. This security goes
beyond the natural and moves us into the supernatural. We can have security in spiritual
things. This enables us to become
confident in our ability to be victorious and be an overcomer! With this said, let me highlight a few
Scriptures for you to mutter:
Hebrews
13:5:
5Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]
5Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]
Psalm
37:25:
25I have been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the [uncompromisingly] righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread.
25I have been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the [uncompromisingly] righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread.
1
John 1:9:
9If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].
9If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].
2
Corinthians 12:9:
9But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!
9But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!
Hebrews
13:8:
8Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages).
8Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages).
John
14:3:
3And when (if) I go and make ready a place for you, I will come back again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also.
3And when (if) I go and make ready a place for you, I will come back again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also.
Because There is Hope
Just as confidence follows security we
see here that security follows Hope.
Hope is the anchor of the soul.
This anchor was established when Christ died on the cross for us!
Hebrews
6:19-20:
19[Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it--a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil,
19[Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it--a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil,
20Where Jesus has entered in for us [in advance], a Forerunner
having become a High Priest forever after the order (with the rank) of
Melchizedek.
We even know that the existence of
Faith is a product of things hoped for.
Hebrews
11:1:
1Now
faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
With this we see that Faith and
Security are twins, both birthed from Hope.
Hollywood, Politicians and all sales people present their message
surrounded in hope. Hope for change, hope
for a better life, hope of something new working; but all of them fall short of
the lasting and enduring hope only found in a relationship with Jesus
Christ. When people have lost everything
they need to hear there is a hope. When
people are spiritually destitute they need to hear there is hope. Not an empty hope, but a hope that is built
and rooted on Him who can tell no lie.
Before Christ, mankind was lost with no direction and Hope. But when Christ came he is and was the full
embodiment of hope.
Ephesians 2:12-13:
12[Remember] that you were at that time separated (living apart) from Christ [excluded from all part in Him], utterly estranged and outlawed from the rights of Israel as a nation, and strangers with no share in the sacred compacts of the [Messianic] promise [with no knowledge of or right in God's agreements, His covenants]. And you had no hope (no promise); you were in the world without God.
12[Remember] that you were at that time separated (living apart) from Christ [excluded from all part in Him], utterly estranged and outlawed from the rights of Israel as a nation, and strangers with no share in the sacred compacts of the [Messianic] promise [with no knowledge of or right in God's agreements, His covenants]. And you had no hope (no promise); you were in the world without God.
13But
now in Christ Jesus, you who once were [so] far away, through (by, in) the
blood of Christ have been brought near.
This hope never shames us or
disappoints and is a product of endurance and assurance of Christ.
Romans
5:1-5:
1THEREFORE, SINCE we are justified (acquitted,
declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, let us
[grasp the fact that we] have [the peace of reconciliation to hold and to
enjoy] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed
One).
2Through Him also we have [our] access (entrance, introduction) by
faith into this grace (state of God's favor) in which we [firmly and safely]
stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying
the glory of God.
3Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph
in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and
affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance.
4And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved
faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit
of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation.
5Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God's love
has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to
us.
We need to speak words of hope, in our
lives and in the lives of others. End
the word curses of your life. Get
deliverance! Be free! Quit rehearsing in your own mind the lies the
enemy spoke to you years ago. Do not
embrace the lie! Let it go! The stream of our own thoughts must be
changed. We must take captive every
thought (2 Corinthians 10:5) and see if aligns with the heart of God! Again are we a community of hope or a
community of misery?
Our thoughts must be centered in
Philippians 4:12-13:
Philippians
4:12-13:
12I know how to be abased and live humbly in straitened circumstances, and I know also how to enjoy plenty and live in abundance. I have learned in any and all circumstances the secret of facing every situation, whether well-fed or going hungry, having a sufficiency and enough to spare or going without and being in want.
12I know how to be abased and live humbly in straitened circumstances, and I know also how to enjoy plenty and live in abundance. I have learned in any and all circumstances the secret of facing every situation, whether well-fed or going hungry, having a sufficiency and enough to spare or going without and being in want.
13I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am
ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength
into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].
We need to embrace this hope! Christ who empowers us makes us ready for
anything and equal to anything through HIM who infuses inner strength into
us. Because there is Hope! Because there is Hope! Because there is HOPE we can do all things. God’s blood is not anemic! It has not lost its power. That same blood that flowed from the cross of
Calvary is still flowing today to bring us hope. God is not standing on the corner hocking the
cattle from His thousand hills. He still
owns the cattle and the hills! He is
still on the thrown and you can bank on it.
His pavement is gold. He has
crowns that are filled with jewels waiting on us with a mansion to rest
in. He who created all things is still
capable of a creative miracle in your life!
We were purchased by the Blood of
Christ to be living sacrifices.
Following Christ death there was no longer a need for animal
sacrifices. If you go into a store and
pay for a candy bar it is only reasonable that you walk out of the store with
the candy bar. Therefore, since Christ
purchased us it is only reasonable that we present ourselves to Him. We present ourselves to Christ because it is
reasonable, but also because there is hope!
Romans
12:1:
1I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg
of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of
your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice,
holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable
(rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship.
Search About You and Take Rest
What are you searching for? Most searching is done in hopes of satisfying
our own needs. We get consumed with
selfish searching. In this passage
“search” can actually be translated as “entrench.” This actually means to establish or root
yourself. In other words, dig deep
within you. Find within you the depths
of who you are. What are you rooted in,
your own self sufficiency or Christ’s sufficiency? Zophar here is encouraging Job to find himself. When we are dealing with such misery we
really begin to see what we are made of.
Are we simple or is there some depth to our character? What are the ideals, principles and precepts
that guide our thoughts and choices?
Search, dig, and cement yourself into the things of God. Find deep within you all that is good and
dwell there. Ingrain your thoughts on
His Word! Embed your conscience on the
things of God. There is a place of rest
that can be found there. Move into the
peace that passes understanding. I
recently heard a testimony of a pastor who was on a flight that had to make an
emergency landing. In the midst of the
crisis people around him were overwhelmed with the thought of life ending. Many crying and screaming as the crew tried
to prepare them for what was to come.
This pastor found himself breathing a simple prayer asking God to take
care of his wife and children and comfort them in their loss. While others were still dealing with the
thought of their immortality, he simple found himself at peace. We need to step into that peace when
surrounded by misery. There we will find
rest.
Philippians
4:7:
7And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
7And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
The word “entrench” also is a military
term which indicates that we are going to put a stake in the ground and say “No
more misery! No more loss!” Many soldiers have stories of nights where
they were surrounded by the enemy, but they had entrenched themselves until
help could get there. We too, when faced
with such an on slot as Job we should entrench ourselves until our deliverer
comes! In those moments when we know
that we are completely surrounded by a warning system we can find rest. Spiritually we have to align our hearts to
His so that we are entrenched in His presence and there we will find
peace. Expect Angels to be on guard as
ministering spirits sent by God to war and protect.
Hebrews
1:14:
14Are not the angels all ministering spirits (servants) sent out in the service [of God for the assistance] of those who are to inherit salvation?
14Are not the angels all ministering spirits (servants) sent out in the service [of God for the assistance] of those who are to inherit salvation?
Be sure your environment is set so
that it is easy for you to be surrounded by the presence of God. Watch the inputs: what TV Show are you
watching? What things are you reading? What company are you keeping? Are they things that would be pleasing to God
or allow you to easily entrench yourself in His presence? Here’s a little practical advice. Set up a devotion station in your home. There you will keep a pad and pencil for when
God begins to speak to you personally. Keep
an unmarked Bible there where God’s Word can speak fresh and new to you and you
are not distracted by previous sermons or thoughts. Keep a journal to record daily what God is
saying to you and if need be reflect on previous conversations you have had. It will also help you keep track and not lose
sight of all that God is doing. Never
move those items from their place so you are instantly ready to dive into His
presence.
Rest!
There were two things that were established before the fall of mankind. One was the Sabbath and the other the Marriage
Covenant. Both are under severe attack
today! The idea of a Sabbath, a day of rest, seems nearly impossible
today. Are we better than God? Are we busier than He?
Genesis
2:2:
2And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.
2And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.
There are still a few businesses that
observe Sunday as a day of rest. If you
pay any attention to these businesses you see that they are quite busy. Chick-fil-a and Hobby Lobby are two that come
to mind. Not only are they busy, but
their standards seem to be higher. Many
have heard the phrase from a Chick-fil-A counter person, “My pleasure!” Have you heard that at any other fast food
restaurant? Just the attitude of genuine
care for their customer seems to be at higher standards. I have found that those who are good stewards
of their money and time (paying their tithes, and taking a day of rest) tend to
be more responsible with their money and time commitments. There is an order that comes naturally when
we observe these principles in our lives.
Many look at a day of rest as being
spent in the bed all day. The day is not
intended for you to sleep all day (although for some this would seem
nice). It is an unstructured day to
reflect, enjoy and bless. God blessed on
the seventh day. This is an opportunity
for you to bless your wife, children and others! It is a day set apart from your normal
routine. The word “rest” in Genesis 2:2
could actually be interpreted “Celebrate.”
The Sabbath is a day to celebrate!
Celebrate your labors, family and others. The seventh day was a day sat aside for holy
rest and holy work! Resting from our
labor and working to glorify God! Since
the beginning the Sabbath was established.
The earth has always known and expected a day of rest. Man was created with a day of rest
established in his weekly order. We
should honor the Sabbath as God honored it simply because He honored and
established it. God blessed the Sabbath
day and it is a blessed day for those who observe it. Whatever God blesses it is surely
blessed! God anxiously waits for the
Sabbath day to come so that He can be blessed by our celebration of Him and so
that He can lavish His love on us and bless us.
Although the establishment of the Sabbath was the seventh day of
creation, it is noted as the first day of the week. The first six days were the beginning of
creation, but the seventh day began the weekly pattern of mankind. Thus, the first order of mankind was
established – Man should worship God before all else. When the Sabbath is observed, safety and
security are a product of that day of rest.
So, for a moment let’s look on the
practical side. Set boundaries! Establish a day of rest during your
week. You may need to break the day up,
but each week observe a “day” of rest.
The unstructured time is for you to bless, reflect and rest. Maybe it is one morning, one afternoon and
one evening during the week. Block your
calendar and do not schedule anything during that time. Turn off your cell phones or put them on
silent. The head of the home must
establish this principal. Watch your
commitments. Let your yes be yes and
your no be no! Wisdom says, “don’t over
commit.’ Honor your commitments but do
not over commit. When your Sabbath is
lost or invaded, plan a special time off or multiple days to recuperate and
re-establish the Sabbath routine. When
we don’t rest we are saying that we are better than God.
The last part of Job 11:18 says, “you
shall take your rest in safety.” It is
action on your part. You have to “take
your rest.” It is a deliberate action on
your part to take it! You must force
yourself to do it. You will be safe. There will be no more misery, no more loss, and
no more heartache. You will find
yourself resting in safety. Why? Because God’s presence will be all around
you! Take rest! Take it!
It is yours! You can rest! Be free!
Rest!!! When restoration comes
you will be entrenched by the presence of the Holy Spirit and nothing shall be
taken from you again!
When You Lie Down, None Will Make You Afraid
When you rest, you will not feel the
need to stand guard because the redeemer of the universe is on guard. Fear will be gone! There will be no expectation of assault
because the King of kings and the Lord of lords will be on duty for you. When we are at rest with Him nothing will
make us afraid. Fear will be gone. God has promised us, His covenant children
that we do not have to be afraid. Fear
is not something that God gives us.
2
Timothy 1:7:
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
Remember Philippians 4:13 above! We have power and strength not fear. We possess the kind of power to overcome the
enemy’s plan. It is infused in us. Our veins are now flowing with royal
blood. There has been a transformation
in our life and all fear has been removed.
God desires for us to walk in such strength and power that we are ready
and equal to anything. Through Him all
things are possible. Though the misery
of this life may seem to overtake us, we must rise above it and embrace the
strength and power He has give us! We
are victorious and we can take rest in safety.
Philippians
4:6-7:
6Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.
6Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.
7And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul
assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and
being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which
transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts
and minds in Christ Jesus.
Because we have accepted the Lord
Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and aligned our hearts to Him we are entitled
to a benefit request! Just like you when
you have insurance you are entitled to place and receive benefits.
God’s love is perfect. There is no fear in God’s love. So, above in 2 Timothy 1:7 we see that God
has not given us fear but He has given us love.
Love is the fuel of transformation.
Love is what enables you and others to be transformed. When we love those who are in difficult times
we are fueling the potential of change within them. God’s love is so pure and innocent. It transcends all hurts, pains and hang-ups. It allows those stuck and consumed by their
misery to find freedom. Love releases
and actually expels fear. Not only is it
expelled, but there is no residue of terror left when love sweeps through the
sorrows of this life. When we obtain the
full maturity of love we will take no thought of punishment or harm coming to
us, but we will be completely free from fear.
Someone needs to shout and give praise to God! Embrace His love toward you and rest in
safety!
1
John 4:18:
18There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love's complete perfection].
18There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love's complete perfection].
Again, above in 2 Timothy 1:7, we see
that in addition to power and love, God has also given us a calm and well
balanced mind. Rest and rest in safety
comes when we are calm and well balanced in our mind. Embrace the clarity of mind that God has
given you. Instead of confessing how
overwhelmed you are, begin confessing how calm and well-balanced you are. Allow the peace of mind that God has given
you overtake the troubles and misery you find yourself surrounded in. Embrace all that God has for you and rest your
mind. Misery consumes our thoughts, but
a mind stayed on Christ is sure to find rest.
You can rest that you are at the forefront of His thoughts. His thoughts are turned to you daily. We cannot understand all that is going on in
our world around us, but we can put our understanding and seize our thoughts on
the good things of God. His purposes and
plans for us are sure. He is in control.
1
Corinthians 2:16:
16For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart
16For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart
Yes, Many Shall Sue You for Your Favor
Safety, security, confidence and hope
produce stability in your life. Here in
Job 11:19, Zophar tells Job that it is he will become so blessed again that
people will pursue him. Many will pursue
those who are walking in material favor, but those caught in the snares and miseries
of this life will be drawn to others demonstrating peace, rest and safety while
they too are experiencing similar loss and calamity. Many are searching for examples and reasons
to keep on. Those stuck in misery and who
want to be free, are looking for a better way of life. Passionate examples are beacons of hope to
those lost in the desolation of their life.
Here we find a real example of what it means to live in the favor of
God. Regardless of our lot in life we
have found peace, security and hope.
Financial blessing are only one part of the favor of God. Health, peace and happiness are also examples
of God’s favor operating in our lives.
Are you surrounded by a group who commiserate together or are you
surrounded by a group who encourage you to overcome and they themselves are
overcoming? Are you surrounded by those
who will listen to you or by those who will speak into your life and challenge
you?
Proverbs 14:4:
4Where no
oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
You must identify those who have grain
in their crib. When you are confounded,
you need to find those who have grain in their crib. These are people who have good things to eat. These people are those who know the Word of
God and follow His precepts. For many
years I read this Scripture and interpreted it incorrectly. I always thought it meant I would have lots
of dung to shovel. As a pastor, many
would come and dump their troubles in my office and there were days I felt I
had to shovel my way out. Then I read
and studied this passage. It became
clear to me as to why so many sought my counsel and prayer. It is because my crib has good grain. I offer wisdom from God and direction that is
scripturally based. Wow! What a difference this made for me. No longer did I feel that I was shoveling
dung all day, but I now rejoiced and praised God because I have something to
give.
When people are in crisis, like Job,
they are looking for someone who can demonstrate Christ’s Love. In a curriculum called “The 11th
Commandment” they introduce the idea of “The 35 One-Another’s.” They are the
“how to’s” of love. People who embody
these characteristics are what people will pursue. If we demonstrate this kind of love others
will be drawn to us.
1. Love one another (John 13:34).
2. Depend on one another (Romans 12:5 AMP).
3. Be devoted to one another (Romans 12:10).
4. Wash one another’s feet (John 13:14).
5. Rejoice with one another (Romans 12:15; 1
Corinthians 12:26).
6. Weep with one another (Romans 12:15).
7. Live in harmony with one another (Romans
12:16).
8. Don’t judge one another (Romans 14:13).
9. Accept one another (Romans 15:7).
10. Admonish one another (Colossians 3:16).
11. Greet one another (Romans 16:16).
12. Wait for one another (1 Corinthians 11:33).
13. Care for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25).
14. Serve one another (Galatians 5:13).
15. Be kind to one another (Ephesians 4:32).
16. Forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32;
Colossians 3:13).
17. Be compassionate toward one another (Ephesians
4:32).
18. Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
19. Submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21).
20. Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2;
Colossians 3:13).
21. Stimulate love in one another (Hebrews 10:24).
22. Offer hospitality to one another (1 Peter
4:9).
23. Minister gifts to one another (1 Peter 4:10).
24. Be clothed in humility toward one another (1
Peter 5:5).
25. Don’t slander one another (James 4:11).
26. Don’t grumble against one another (James 5:9).
27. Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16).
28. Pray for one another (James 5:16).
29. Fellowship with one another (1 John 1:7).
30. Don’t be puffed up against one another (1
Corinthians 4:6).
31. Carry one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
32. Honor one another (Romans 12:10).
33. Instruct one another (Romans 15:14).
34. Prefer one another (Romans 12:10).
35. Comfort one another (2 Corinthians 1:4).
When the love of God begins to exude
out of your life people will pursue you.
Conclusion
Job 11:16-19:
16For you shall forget your misery; you shall remember it as waters that pass away.
16For you shall forget your misery; you shall remember it as waters that pass away.
17And [your] life shall be clearer than the
noonday and rise above it; though there be darkness, it shall be as the
morning.
18And you shall be secure and feel confident
because there is hope; yes, you shall search about you, and you shall take your
rest in safety.
19You shall lie down, and none shall make you
afraid; yes, many shall sue for your favor.
