Embracing the Mystery of Suffering
As I reflect on my seminary days, I’m reminded of a poignant discussion with my professor and fellow students about the book of Job. We grappled with the age-old question: Can we truly trust a God who allows the innocent to suffer? It’s a query that has haunted humanity for centuries, and one that Job himself wrestled with.
The Natural Response to Suffering
Human instinct would dictate that we abandon a God who seems to condone pain and abandon those in need. Yet, Job’s story reveals a deeper truth. Despite his cries of “Why me, God?”, he clung to his faith, trusting in the character of God. Job’s trust wasn’t rooted in his circumstances, but in the nature of God Himself.
Beyond Suffering: Knowing God Deeper
The book of Job is a powerful testament to the human experience of suffering, but more importantly, it’s a journey of discovery – of knowing God in a way that transcends pain and doubt. Job’s trials didn’t alter his beliefs or actions, but they did deepen his understanding of God’s character. In the midst of turmoil, Job declared, “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: and though worms destroy my body, yet in my flesh shall I see God…” (Job 19:25-26).
A Deeper Trust
This profound declaration speaks to the heart of trust – looking beyond our present struggles to the glory that awaits us. Do you know that your Redeemer lives, and that He will one day welcome you into eternal glory, despite the ravages of time on your earthly body? Trust means embracing the mystery of suffering, even when we can’t understand the why.
A Prayer for Trust
Father God, help me to know You more deeply, to trust You unconditionally, no matter what life brings. May I, like Job, declare my trust in You, even in the darkest of times. Amen.
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