How good are you?

 Read Psalm 14. 

One of the qualities of God's character throughout the Scriptures is that He is good.  So, if a person rejects the LORD, how good can they be? 

Yes, we know people who are nice, kind and friendly.  Philanthropists accomplish tremendous good deeds around the globe.  In fact, most folks seem to want to do what is right by each other.  This has led many to assume that man is innately good.  The question then must be raised, "Good by whose standard?"  Do human acts of kindness earn merit with God?  Can a person perform enough good works to be accepted into heaven? 

This psalm clarifies God's evaluation of human character apart from Him.

1. He is a fool.

2. He is corrupt.

3. He does abominable deeds.

4. There is none who does good. 

Such statements offend our pride.  It requires humility to acknowledge our sinful nature to God and seek His mercy and forgiveness in Christ. 

The Apostle Paul quoted Psalm 14 when he wrote to the Roman Christians.  And, then he wrote, "…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:9-24) 

That may be who we are by natural birth, but we no longer need to live in that condition.  God is good and He offers that goodness to us through faith in Jesus.

 

Why does God wait to answer our Prayers?

 Read Psalm 13. 

Jesus encouraged His disciples in Luke 18:1 that they “ought always to pray and not lose heart.”  Yet, the answers to our prayers do not always come immediately.  Waiting on God to work in us and in others can be an excruciating test of our faith. 

Four times in this short song, David asked, “How long?”  He had prayed, but after sometime he saw nothing happening.  As a result, he felt forgotten and distant from God.  All day his mind churned on his need, wearing him down; while his enemy seemed to become stronger. 

The turning point came when he made a choice to exercise his faith rather than his doubts.  His circumstances had not yet changed, but David did. 

1.     He remembered the past.

Many times before he had trusted God and God was always faithful.  Intentionally counting one’s blessings turns our hearts to thanksgiving rather than complaining about what we do not have. 

2.     He looked to the future.

He knew that sooner or later God would provide deliverance for him.  It would be on God’s timetable, not his.  Living in the hope of that coming answer to prayer turns our hearts to rejoicing. 

3.     He took action in the present.

He replaced the thoughts full of worry and anxiety with thanksgiving and rejoicing in the LORD.  As a result, he began to sing praises “because he has dealt bountifully with me.” 

Someone once said, “When we ask God to do something for us, He generally does something in us.”

Somebody Lied!

 Read Psalm 12.

We are not told who it was nor what they said, but some smooth talker lied.  David became so upset that when he looked around and all he could see were liars. 

People lie in the hope that they will not be exposed.  They hide the truth for their own selfish gain and protection.  Flattery is a form of lying as it seeks the attention of another person for selfish gain of some kind.  They take advantage of the unsuspecting.  Specifically, David mentioned the poor and needy in verse 5.  God will respond. 

Lying is a sin.  And, like all sin apart from the forgiveness of Christ, lying has eternal consequences. 

"But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death." (Revelation 21:8) 

Jesus said, "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.." (Matthew 12:36) 

What was David's point?  Why would he put such an emotional issue in song and give it to the choirmaster?  He wanted everyone to know the contrast between what men may say and the trustworthiness of God's word. 

"The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times." (v.6) 

God's word is of the highest quality.  His word is pure and holy.  Therefore, the Bible is totally reliable. 

Solid reminders in times of great Trouble

 Read Psalm 11. 

The enemies of Israel prepared for war.  As the king, David had to lead the nation in a response.  Some were overcome with fear and suggested that they run for their lives.  They did not feel there was anything they could do to prevent it.  "What else can we do?" (v.3) 

But fleeing would mean turning their back on everything they said they believed.  It was God who established this kingdom.  It was God who raised up David to lead.  It was God's word by which they lived.  This was a test of their faith.  If they turned back, the very foundations of their society and culture would have been lost. 

In this song, David encouraged the nation by reminding them of some basics of their faith.

1. "The LORD is in his holy temple." (v.4a)

Do not forget who God is.  He is on His throne and in total control of this universe. 

2. "His eyes see, his eyelids test, the children of man.  The LORD tests the righteous." (vv.4b-5a)

The LORD is in heaven but He is not watching us from a distance.  He is up close and personal.  The events we face are tests of our faith to provide opportunities to practice what we preach. 

3. "His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence." (vv.5b-6)

The actions of evil doers are also in full view of God.  He will judge them and cause their schemes to come back on them. 

4. "The LORD is righteous." (v.7)

God is dependable and faithful to always do what is right.  He loves those who do what is right. 

Instead of only looking at the trouble, we need to look into the face of the One who loves and cares for us.

"The upright shall behold his face."  How personal is that?

 

An anatomy of Oppressors

 Read Psalm 10. 

The Psalmist wrote this out of some confusion and discouragement.  He saw those around him being taken advantage of by evil people.  He felt God was aloof and not answering his prayers. 

Those most in need were the poor, the innocent, the helpless, the afflicted, the fatherless, and others who were oppressed. 

How did the wicked oppressors think they could possibly get away with their sin?

1. Mental Arrogance. (v.2, 4, 6)

"I shall not meet adversity."

It is pride in one's heart that thinks they deserve better, that they can do what they want, and that they can actually get away with it.   It is pride that uses power over the defenseless. 

2. Emotional Greed. (v.3)

It is sheer avarice that motivates one to think they can take what does not belong to them.  It is the height of selfishness and laziness to desire unearned gain. 

3. Spiritual Rebellion. (v.3, 4, 11)

Psalm 14:1-"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'"

The root reason the wicked believe they can behave however they want is because they reject any accountability for their actions.  They willfully proclaim, "There is no God."  And, even if there is, "God has forgotten, he has hidden his face, he will never see it." 

Though we may not witness God's response to our prayers on our time table, God is alive and well.  He sees and does not forget.  He hears the prayers of those in need.  The ultimate accountability for those who reject the Lord is in writing for all to read in Revelation 20:11-15.  Without Jesus, people face a horrifying fate. 

"Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted." (v.12)

Looking at the state of the Nation

 Read Psalm 9. 

The King of Israel took time to write a song concerning the state of the nation.  As he counted all the blessings of God, he could only give thanks. 

Though David provided the leadership in governmental affairs and to the army, he gave God full credit for what had taken place. 

-It was God who protected the nation and pushed back the enemies. (vv.3-6) 

-It was God who meted out justice for the people. (vv.7-8) 

-It was God who ultimately cared for the people. (v.9) 

The line is clearly drawn here between two types of peoples or nations:

1. Those that put their trust in in the LORD discover that God is their refuge in times of oppression, trouble, need, and poverty.  He does not forsake them.  He sees their plight and answers their prayers.  Though they experience hardships for a time, God blesses them and gives them a reason to sing. 

2. Those that trust in themselves face an awful fate.  "The wicked perish; you have blotted out their name forever and ever" (v.5).  Instead of blessings, they receive God's judgment.  "The wicked shall return to Sheol and all the nations that forget God" (v.17). 

The solution is found in David's prayer at the end.  "Let the nations know that they are but men!"  It is when a person humbles themselves before this Sovereign LORD that they find His grace.

 

A reason to Sing

 Read Psalm 8. 

The choir is in its place.  Imagine all the instruments in the orchestra are tuned and ready for the down beat.  There is a brief moment of tension in the air and then the choirmaster drops his hand and those first glorious sounds burst forth at full volume declaring, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" 

King David wrote the words of this song by simply taking notice of what he could see.

1. He looked up. (v.3)

What he saw in the sky was not credited to an accidental bang.  They were orbs that God had specifically designed and put in their unique place.  It was His handiwork. 

2. He looked at himself and others. (vv.4-6)

Taking time to consider the power of the Creator and His exalted position "above the heavens" made David feel mighty small.  True worship humbles us before God.  Yet, look at how the LORD has entrusted His creation to mankind.  Notice that humans did not come from these other creatures and they are not equal to human life.  People are His handiwork. 

3. He looked down. (vv.7-8)

These creatures are God's property.  He established their kind and their various behaviors, but He has given this stewardship and "dominion" to humans.  We are in charge of His handiwork. 

Everywhere he looked he saw the majesty of the LORD.  It caused David to praise God in song. 

When you look at the sky and the earth is this what you see?

Time out for Self-examination

 Read Psalm 7. 

Regular check-ups are a part of a good physical health regimen, along with some daily exercise.  Too often, the only time some folks go to the doctor is when there is a big problem.  The need is the same for one's spiritual life.  Daily coming before God for spiritual cleansing and filling with the Holy Spirit is a key to spiritual health and growth. 

Yet, most often it requires a major threat to cause us to finally stop and take stock as to where we are and what we need to do going forward.  That is what David wrote about here.  He was facing a threat from enemies who wanted to take his life.  From the inscription, it appears to be a verbal one.  In turning to God for help, his first thoughts were to check and see if there was anything he did to cause this.  If he did something wrong, then he simply was getting what he deserved. 

This, then, is his prayer list as he conducted the self-examination before God.

1. "Save me." (v.1)

Everyone facing a life and death situation has prayed for deliverance, from a soldier in battle to one fighting cancer or major times stress.  No one wants life to end under such duress. 

2. "Awake for me." (v.6)

He called upon the God of heaven to intervene and display His power in his circumstances.  God is the ultimate and all-powerful Judge.  He wanted to see the Lord take action on this threat. 

3. "Judge me." (v.8)

David realized that God's judgment worked both ways and not only on his enemies.  Though, he felt confident before the LORD that his life was righteous and had integrity. 

4. "Test me." (v.9)

Knowing that God would deal with the evil-doers, he acknowledged that the LORD tests "the minds and the hearts" of everyone for righteousness and integrity.  His heart was open for God to point out anything that was wrong within him.  He wanted to be sure that he was right with God. 

The proof one's faith and spiritual health is what happens next.  Fear is the opposite of faith.  Only after the examination and prayer could David break out with such confidence in thanking God and praising His name.

Faith in a time of great Stress

 Read Psalm 6. 

David's prayer in song was "how long?"  How long will he have to endure the pain and suffering?  His distress went beyond physical discomfort, "My soul is also greatly troubled." (v.3)  Indeed, he blamed it on some "workers of evil" (v.8), "foes" (v.7), harassing people who had pushed him beyond his limit. 

Even when he tried to rest and get some sleep, all he could do was cry. 

His request of God was to deliver him so he could continue to give God praise in this life.  Dead men cannot do this (v.5). 

While those were his feelings, this song is one of resolute faith!

In those dark hours, here is what he believed. 

1. God takes notice our personal problems.

"The LORD has heard my plea."

1 Peter 3:12-"The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer." 

2. God personally takes hold and receives our requests.

"The LORD accepts my prayer."

This is much more than merely hearing our prayers.  When the father of a dying daughter came to Jesus with his request, Jesus told him, "Do not fear, only believe." (Mark 5:36) 

3. The LORD personally takes care of us.

Psalm 46:1-"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear..."

A key to answered Prayer

 Read Psalm 4. 

"But know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him." (v.3) 

“Set apart” is the simplest definition of the word sanctification.  Sanctification is not a word to ignore.  It is vital to understand.  The Bible explains two aspects of us being set apart for God. 

1. Eternal.

"But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth." (2 Thessalonians 2:13) 

At the very moment of believing in Jesus, we are set apart from the world to God.  This is a singular, eternal act of God's grace.  When the Bible speaks of this sanctification it is always in the past tense of one's life of faith. 

2. Practical.

"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor.." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4) 

A growing believer in Jesus continues to discipline themselves in a lifestyle that demonstrates that they have already been set apart to God.  This is an on-going endeavor of discipleship.  When the Bible speaks of this aspect of sanctification it is always in the present and progressive sense. 

How important is our sanctification?  As the Psalmist wrote, it is a key to God responding to our prayers.

When there appears to be no Hope

 Read Psalm 3. 

Outwardly, there appeared to be no hope.  (vv.1-2)

David was on the run for his life.  Everything had turned upside down on him.  He was a leader, but the nation was not following him.  He was a warrior, but he chose to run rather than fight his own son, Absalom.  He was a man with great faith in God, but his pursuers declared that even God could not help him now. 

Inwardly, David broke out in praise!  (vv.3-8)

With his life on the line, how could he praise God at a time like this?

1. He Protects me.

God was his shield, not an army. 

2. He Honors me.

God was his glory, not his position on the throne. 

3. He Encourages me.

God was his source of strength, not his circumstances. 

4. He Answers my prayers.

David had a history of calling out to God and seeing Him work in response. 

5. He Sustains me.

David could rest and even sleep without fear, knowing that God was his protector. 

6. He Delivers me.

The threat was real.  But David knew the power of God and his full faith and trust was in Him. 

"Salvation belongs to the LORD; your blessing be on your people!" (v.6)

Why is there so much turmoil in the world?

 Read Psalm 2. 

Why do the nations rage?  Why does not everyone embrace Jesus as Savior? 

Rejection and outright rebellion against God is not new.  The first mention of such pride-filled actions occurred when Lucifer was expelled from heaven.  Ever since then Satan has made it his work to turn human hearts and nations to thwart God's will and purposes. 

With the killing of Abel in the Garden of Eden, there has been a spiritual war against believers.  Today, from Asia to Africa, Christians are being killed and churches destroyed solely because of their faith. 

What is God's response to the rebellious?  He laughs!  He laughs not because it is funny but in derision.  It is insane that a person would think they know better than God or can ignore His power and eternal claims.  At His will, at any moment, He can unleash His wrath on any of them.  This is His world. 

The root issue is Jesus, the Messiah.  He is the One who will rule and reign over the nations from the throne of David.  But even more, the Messiah came to save us from our sin so we could enjoy an eternal and personal relationship with Him. 

So, what should be done?

1. "Be wise." (v.10)

Only a fool ignores a warning like this.  Responding to salvation in Jesus is the most intelligent decision a person will ever make. 

2. Serve and Fear God. (v.11)

Instead of rebelling against what He has said, respect it.  Serving God leads to a life of rejoicing. 

3. Embrace Jesus as Lord. (v.12)

Most translations use the phrase "kiss the Son."  This refers to an eastern response of bowing, kissing the hand or feet of a supreme authority.  In doing so, one finds peace and safety under their protection. 

"Blessed are all who take refuge in him." 

What does godliness look like?

 Read Psalm 1. 

This first song in Israel's hymnbook contrasts a godly person with a wicked person. 

What are the distinguishing characteristics?

1. We are known by the advice to which we listen.

A godly person draws life coaching, first and foremost, from the Scriptures.

A wicked person has ruled God out of his thinking. 

2. We are known by the company we keep.

A godly person desires to be with God's people for worship, learning and service.

A wicked person wants to spend time with those who are rebellious and lead a lawless lifestyle. 

3. We are known by the commitments we make.

A godly person speaks from a pure heart that seeks to meets the needs of others.

A wicked person responds negatively to spiritual things, even mocking and ridiculing.

 

What are the keys to growing in godliness?

1. A godly person delights in what God has to say.

He sees the Scriptures as a pleasure and invaluable to life. 

2. A godly person meditates on what God has to say.

More than reading or studying, meditation has to do with turning it over and over in your mind in order to put it into practice.  Asking, "What does that mean to me and my behavior?" 

 

When does a godly person do this?

Day and night.  It is not a Sunday thing to do.  It is not limited to a daily quiet time.  Godliness is an all the time thing, while we are going about our daily lives.

 

What is the result?

Stability.  A godly person is firmly rooted by the values of the Word of God.

Productivity.  A godly person bears noticeable fruit in his labors.

Prosperity.  A godly person can be recognized by their spiritual vitality no matter where they are.

3 Questions believing sufferers need to ask

 Read Job 42. 

1. What do I know now that I did not understand before this calamity?

Job realized a deeper understanding of who God is that he could not have learned in any other way.  For Job, it was summed up in these two statements.

-"I know that you can do all things."

- "I know that no purpose of yours can be thwarted." 

He said things he regretted.  His words came out of his hurt and confusion. 

2. How did God reveal Himself to me?

Job had a personal encounter with the one true and living God through his sufferings.  That was the turning point.  God's words both corrected and comforted Him. 

There were three results of this meeting with God.

-Job repented of his sin of finding fault with the LORD.

-God rebuked Job's friends for their sin of misjudging Job.

-God restored the fortunes of Job by 200%. 

3. What can I take away from this?

Believers in Jesus have an eternal, personal relationship with the same God who spoke to Job.  If we suffer and it is not our fault, we find ourselves in a school that is designed to teach us a deeper understanding of God's love for us and our hope in Him. 

"...we rejoice in sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."  (Romans 5:3-5)

 

Two Powerful Questions and the Ultimate Claim

 Read Job 41. 

God continued firing one question after another at Job.  All the questions here, except two, were singularly focused on a scary sea creature called Leviathan.  In chapter 40, we are told about the huge land creature call Behemoth.  It is unclear as to the exact identities of these two.  Some have suggested that these are types of dinosaurs now extinct.  Many conservative scholars see traits of the hippopotamus in one and a giant crocodile in the other.  If mankind thinks these creatures are frightening, how much more to be in the presence of the Creator Himself. 

Interestingly, the climax of God's personal inquisition came in verses 10a-11 with two questions and an ultimate claim. 

1. "Who then can stand before me?"

The answer is no one.  As seen previously, it is human pride that thinks they know better than God and could possibly argue with Him.  There is coming a day, however, when even the most rebellious will kneel in surrender before the LORD.

"...at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11) 

2. "Who has first given to me, that I should repay him?"

Job was a godly and generous man.  He did everything right.  He voiced several times that he did not deserve to suffer.  Indeed, he looked for God to reward him.  But God is no one's debtor.  Life with God is not transactional as a quid pro quo.  Some want to treat God in a manner that says, "If you give me what I want then I will give you what you want."  On the other hand is the prosperity gospel that preaches, “If I give, then I will get.”  According to God neither is true. 

3. "Whatever is under the whole heaven is mine."

This is the irrefutable statement of a Sovereign God.  He claims absolute ownership of all things.  Everything Job had from his breath, his ability to have children, his ability to earn, his opportunities and all the results had been graciously given to him by the One who owns and controls all things. 

The Apostle Paul asked: "What do you have that you did not receive?  If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?" (1 Corinthians 4:7) 

"But who are you, O man, to answer back to God?  Will what is molded say to its molder, 'Why have you made me like this?'  Has the potter no right over the clay...?" (Romans 9:20-21a) 

Humbling to acknowledge?  Yes.  But when one reaches that point they are in a perfect position then to experience God's grace as never before.

Embracing the root issue of Suffering

 Read Job 40. 

Feeling overwhelmed, Job had no more questions.  But God did not stop.  The questioning continued for two more chapters. 

Did not Job already feel humbled?  Did he not put his hand over his mouth and commit to say no more?  The answer to both is "yes".  However, there is a difference in feeling sorry and regretting what one said or did and learning a lasting lesson. 

In a time of great loss, pain or distress it is in our nature to question God, to argue with Him, or to even want to reject His plans for us.  Accepting undesired circumstances is not the lesson to be learned.  That is a surface issue.  The root issue is moving to a deeper understanding of who God truly is and our relationship to Him. 

Job wanted to argue his case with God to justify himself (v.8).  Such a thought exalts oneself to be on a par with the God of heaven.  So, let's compare. 

God's questions to Job are comparison statements to Himself. 

"Do you have My power and ability?"

"Do you have a voice like mine that thunders to humble, create and provide?

"Are you really any match for My majesty and dignity, glory and splendor?"

"Can you make something like Behemoth, feed him, and take him all by yourself?" 

Embracing our position before the LORD and exalting Him in our lives is the essence of worship.  The Psalmist David wrote in Psalm 8:3-4, 9.  "When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?...O LORD, how majestic is your name in all the earth!"

Such worship produces contentment regardless of circumstances.  “…I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.  I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

A quiz for those who wish to argue with God

 Read Job 39-40:5. 

This is for everyone who thinks they know better than God on how to run things, including their own lives. 

All along Job wanted to argue his legal case with God.  In response, God systematically took Job through the creation.  To demonstrate His absolute sovereignty, God relentlessly quizzed Job with over 40 questions in these two chapters. 

"Do you..."

"Can you..."

"Is it by your understanding..."

"Is it at your command..."

How humbling for a person to realize that the answer to all of God's questions is "no"!  None of creation is in the control of humans.  As Creator, God alone is the Owner and Sustainer.  He is all powerful and all knowing. 

Then His final question: "Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty?"  Who is man that he would argue with God or question Him as if God did not know what He was doing? 

To this, Job could only acknowledge how small this made him feel and put his hand over his mouth.   He would question God's authority in his life no more. 

When the Kingdom of Judah suffered the loss of all things, living in captivity, Jeremiah wrote a letter of hope to them that God was in control.  All of God's actions are done with purpose and for their good.  The present pain was not to be compared to God's plan for them...for Job…and for us. 

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)  Trust Him and see.

 

Asking God "Why?" may not be the right question.

 Read Job 38. 

Elihu had just finished six chapters of defending God and finished by referring to God's control of the natural elements.  Then, a whirlwind appeared with God's voice responding to Job at last. 

In the next four chapters, the LORD never answered Job's question of "why" these things had happened to him.  Rather, the focus of what God had to say was singularly on "who" was in control the entire time. 

The LORD drilled Job with questions such as:

1.  "Where were you when I created the earth?"

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." 

2. "Where were you when I separated light from darkness?"

Genesis 1:3-4 "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light.  And God saw that the light was good.  And God separated the light from the darkness." 

Next, God described His personal control of the sea, the clouds, and the entire water cycle of the earth. 

3. "Where were you when I set the stars in orbit?"

Psalm 147:4 "He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names." 

4. "Where were you when I established and provided for the earth's food chain?"

Matthew 6:26 "Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not of more value than they?" 

The God of the Bible claims personal responsibility and care for every detail of life.  When compared to this awesome God, mankind is very small and insignificant.  However, the answer to Jesus' question in Matthew 6 is yes.  We are of much more value than any or all of His creation combined.  He personally loves us and gave His life for us on the cross.

Why talk about the weather?

 Read Job 37. 

Understanding when these words were written, the scientific knowledge is outstanding.  The Bible has much to say about the natural world-its origins, shapes, movements, functions and control.  Every statement is completely accurate. 

Elihu described the hydraulic cycle of the earth in the previous chapter.  Here he spoke even more of lightning, thunder, rain, snow, ice, winds and its effects on humans and animals.  The reason for his treatise is that God created and controls all of it.  And, He does so, according to verse 13, with three basic motivations:

1. For correction.

The Bible gives many examples where God has used the natural elements as instruments of His judgment.  Of course, the worldwide flood in Genesis is the prime example. 

2. For his land.

The earth is dependent upon the water cycle for life and cultivation. 

3. For love.

The blessings of different weather patterns at just the right seasons of the year provide enjoyment, refreshment, growth, food, and profit. 

All of these actions are beyond any human power to control.  How then could a human argue with the One in heaven who has such sovereign power? 

Then, because he felt Job's words were self-serving and self-righteous, he aimed his invitation directly at Job.

By the way, these are good for everyone to hear.

v.14-"Stop and consider the wondrous works of God."

v.24-"Therefore men fear him; he does not regard any who are wise in their own conceit."

 

How do you respond to personal distress?

 Read Job 36. 

Claiming to speak on behalf of God, Elihu presented various ways people may respond. 

When God brings about, or allows, trouble to strike due to sin, "he declares to them their work and their transgressions, that they are behaving arrogantly" (v.9).  This is God's loving call to the very conscience of the afflicted to turn from their sin and live for Him.  Isaiah 53:6 defines sin as "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all."  The essence of sin is selfish pride that thinks we may live our lives in any way we choose apart from our Creator. 

1. Some people listen and repent of their sin.  The result is that they serve God with their lives. (v.11)

2. Some people do not listen and die never having learned from their sin. (v.12)

3. Some people choose to be angry with God, rebelling against Him, and suffer even greater consequences. (vv.13-14) 

The basis of his message is that God is "perfect in knowledge" (all-knowing) and "mighty" (all-powerful).  Notice how intimate and personal God's knowledge is of individual thoughts and actions.  He intervenes at His will to correct or to bless accordingly.  

While those statements are true, personal distress is not always the result of our sin.  To determine the difference, we must listen to God's voice, examine ourselves, and respond accordingly.   God is at work spiritually and unseen.  People may not experience or witness His responses here and now.  Many wrongs and rewards will be dealt with at the coming judgments after this life. 

The good news, as Isaiah reminds us, is that this is why Messiah came and died on the cross.  "The LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all."  Our ransom from sin has been paid in full.  Accepting God’s offer of forgiveness by faith in Jesus is the beginning of understanding true life.

How is God affected by our sin?

 Read Job 35. 

When a person sins, how does that affect God?  He is sovereign and self-sufficient.  He is not dependent on anyone or anything.  But Job and his friends had touched on the topics of God's responses to human sin and His rewards for doing what is right. 

One by one, Elihu continued to take on the issues that the others brought up.  In verses 10-11, there are several basic statements that underpin the entire teaching of the Bible.

1. God is "my Maker", not the result of a process.

2. Humans were created separately.  We are not the descendants of animal life.

3. Humans are given different capacities than animal life.

4. God treats humans differently than any other part of His creation. 

Though man's behaviors do not alter God's being and character, the Bible repeatedly mentions God's emotions toward us and our sin.

Sin saddens God.

"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."  Ephesians 4:30 

Sin angers God.

"Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled.  Blessed are all who take refuge in him."  Psalm 2:12 

Sinners are loved by God.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."  John 3:16

Does God make mistakes?

 Read Job 34. 

Did God mistreat Job by allowing these things to happen? 

Elihu continued to unload, not only on Job, but also on the other three men.  Job had questioned what God was doing and why.  The so-called friends judged that Job had brought this on himself.  Elihu defended God: "...far be it from God that he should do wickedness, and from the Almighty that he should do wrong."  (v.10) 

       My Father's Way

"My Father's way may twist and turn,

   My heart may throb and ache,

But in my soul I'm glad I know,

   He maketh no mistake.

 

"My cherished plans may go astray,

   My hopes may fade away,

But still I'll trust my Lord to lead

   For he doth know the way.

 

"Tho' night be dark and it may seem

   That day will never break;

I'll pin my faith, my all in Him,

   He maketh no mistake.

 

"There's so much now I cannot see,

   My eyesight's far too dim,

But come what may, I'll simply trust

   And leave it all to Him.

 

"For by and by the mist will lift

   And plain it all He'll make,

Through all the way, tho' dark to me,

   He made not one mistake."

                                      (A. M. Overton)

Are you hearing God speak?

 Read Job 33. 

God was speaking but sometimes people do not hear Him. 

The young man, Elihu, took a chapter and a half giving an introduction to what he wanted to say.  Keep in mind that this took place around the time of Abraham.  Of course, they did not have a Bible.  It was centuries before the Law of Moses.  Yet, there is insightful clarity regarding God's desire to communicate. 

1. Elihu provided a perspective on how God speaks.

Through a dream. v.15

Through pain. v.19

Through a messenger. v.23

 

2. Elihu added a perspective on why God speaks.

To warn and purge pride. v.17

To declare what is right. v.23

To move us to pray to Him. v.26a

To restore us with joy. v.26b,

To share what God has done for us. v.27-28

 

3. In addition to Elihu's list, God continues to speak to us today.

Through His creation.  Psalm 19:1-2

Through His written Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Through listening to His messages.  Romans 10:14-17

Through a personal relationship with His Son.

Hebrews 1:1-2 "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, who he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world."

2 insights from an angry Man

 Read Job 32. 

Most of the book of Job involves three rounds of back and forth between Job and his three visitors.  Each took a turn and then Job would answer.  After a response to Bildad that took six chapters, Job was done.  It was Zophar's turn but he never got the opportunity.  A fourth visitor had been sitting quietly.  He was young and kept silent while the older men spoke.  But he became so angry at Job for what he perceived was self-righteousness that he verbally exploded...six chapters worth. 

However, as we have seen before, even in the misdirection of the blame, there are some solid insights concerning God and life. 

1. Spiritual understanding comes from the Holy Spirit.

"The breath of the Almighty, that makes him understand." (v.8)

The Apostle Paul described how it is not possible for one to perceive spiritual truth with natural means.  "Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand the things freely given us by God.  And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual." (1 Corinthians 2:12-13) 

2. Wisdom does not always come with getting older.

"It is not the old who are wise, nor the aged who understand what is right." (v.9)

Unfortunately, not everyone learns from their experiences.  Some may learn valuable life lessons without ever having those experiences.  The Word of God is the key to helping us know, understand and live in ways that will protect us and to be able to help others.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight." (Proverbs 9:10)

 

10 character traits of an innocent Man

 Read Job 31. 

Is anyone truly innocent?  Wouldn’t there be someone who could bring up a legitimate offense against us? 

Job stated all along that he was falsely accused and did not do anything that deserved his severe losses or his mistreatment by others.   So, in defense of his integrity and his innocence, he challenged anyone to step forward with their claim. 

No less than seventeen times Job used the word "if" to lay out a scenario of possible wrongdoing.  And, if that were true, "then" he knew the consequences.  Only a person with an absolutely clear conscience could make such statements as these. 

Here are the life values and commitments of Job.

1. Sexual purity, both with his eyes and his behavior. (vv.1, 9-12)

2. Personal Honesty. (vv.5-6)

3. Business Honesty. (vv.7-8)

4. Fairness and treating others with equal respect. (vv.13-15)

5. Generosity. (vv.16-23)

6. Humility. (vv.24-28)

7. Peaceable. (vv.29-30)

8. Hospitality. (vv.31-32)

9. Transparency. (vv.33-34)

10. Justice. (vv.38-40) 

Life is 24/7.  Character is who you are.  Job's character was not the result of his innate goodness.  He knew better.  Rather, it had been shaped first by his life commitment to God and by his understanding of his direct accountability to God for his words and actions. 

When we submit our lives to the Holy Spirit, our character looks like this: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control..." (Galatians 5:22-23)

Hope at the end of the Rope

 Read Job 30. 

Once so highly respected, Job had become one who was jeered.  People talked about him and treated him in derisive ways.  They could not stand to be around him. 

Meanwhile, Job had enough internal issues of his own.  His chronic pain would not allow him any rest.  His body was disfigured.  Spiritually, he felt thrown aside by God. 

In crying out to God, Job recounted how he came to the rescue of those around him when they needed help.  But now, when he was the one in need, no one seemed to care.  "But when I hoped for good, evil came, and when I waited for light, darkness came." (v.26) 

It can be difficult to find solid hope in the middle of a tough test.  Job held on to his faith but questioned his circumstances with each response.  Would God allow him to be this miserable and then merely die? (v.23)  The lessons from Job are consistent with many others in the Bible who experienced excruciating tests of faith. 

Hagar, the handmaid of Sarah and mother of Ishmael, was sent away from the family of Abraham to fend for herself.  When the food and water ran out, it appeared that she and her son would soon die.  Surely, she felt abandoned by the people she had served for years and now forgotten by God.  But when "she lifted up her voice and wept" (Genesis 21:16) she discovered that God had been watching every move and listening to every word.  Though others may have forsaken her, He did not.  It was at the lowest point of her despair that the LORD revealed two things to her that we can rely on today. 

1. God has plans for our future.

The LORD was not through with her yet.  She would not die because of this test.  There were things to do.  Her descendants would one day be a great nation. 

2. God has already provided to meet our immediate need.

The water was right in front of her but she did not see it until God "opened her eyes".