Day 9: Job 21-23

Today, we begin by reading Job’s reply to Zophar. He is aware of their insults, but his complaint is against God. He asks a question that I am quite sure you and I have asked at one time or another: “Why do evil people live so long and gain such power?” It’s a valid question. Why do the people who aren’t thinking about God seem to be smooth sailing, are successful without worries, and are enjoying life? 

Maybe you’ve wondered if God was punishing you when things aren’t going your way. I have. But the truth is that sometimes good things happen to wicked people and bad things happen to righteous people, as we see here in Job’s case. 

I know that doesn’t seem fair. But if we are honest, we really don’t want what is fair. For humans born as sinners with a sinful nature and separated from God, fair is eternal punishment. We don’t want that. We are grateful for grace (undeserved kindness) and mercy ( not getting what we truly deserve). 

And in God’s unending love, grace, and mercy, we are prompted to repent. We gain a relationship with God and eternity with Him, all because of the redemptive work of Jesus. That’s something we don’t deserve!

I encourage you to try not to view things from a perspective of what is fair, but from a perspective of grace and mercy. And as it relates to sinners out there living their best life, remember, they are allowed to have their way with a reprobate mind-that’s a punishment, not a reward. Remember, God is at work. He is still active. He has never left you nor forsaken you. He is right there with you, where you are right now.

Job makes a good point in his argument against his friends. They keep saying that wicked people suffer and righteous people are blessed. Job points out that this is not always the case. He explains that many sinners thrive, and many righteous endure trials as he does. 

Yet, in chapter 22 Eliphaz (Job’s 3rd friend) still insists that Job is being punished for his terrible sins. He accuses him of taking clothes from the poor. He says Job refused bread and water to the hungry and thirsty. He accuses him of turning away widows and orphans when he was rich and powerful. He explains that that is why Job is suffering. He tells Job to repent, and he believes God will restore him after that.

In Job 23, Job says that he wants to plead his case before God, but he doesn’t know where to find Him. He doesn’t see God’s hand, and He feels distant, but Job trusts God is there working in the midst of it all. 

Job chooses to surrender to God’s sovereignty. It’s important to remember that when you experience trials, things may not make sense, and you may have unanswered questions. In these seasons, God is still in control. He is in control in the blessings, and He is in control in the messes and trials too. Even when you don’t know where God is, rest assured that He knows exactly where you are. 

This is a grace-filled space. Come as you are. Participate as life allows. If you’d like, comment below and share something that stood out to you in today’s study—your reflection may be exactly what another sister needs to read.

Resources Used:

ESV Single Column Journaling Bible (Original, Black): Holy Bible, English Standard Version

The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda

The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible

Bible Hub: https://biblehub.com/

Crayola Silly Scents Twistables Colored Pencils, 12 count

BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils with Erasers, Thick Point (0.9mm), 24-Count

Mr. Pen- Sticky Index Tabs, 480 Pcs, Colorful Sticky Tabs for Notebooks

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Note: I'm sharing my personal study notes, which means they may contain doctrinal or technical errors. Extend grace as we learn together, and be sure to study the Word for yourself.

By: LaRissa J

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