Read Job 27:1-23
Job’s integrity has weathered a great blow from his friends. Despite it all, Job refused to succumb to their attempts to discredit him. In his final speech, Job boldly says, “I will maintain my innocence without wavering. My conscience is clear for as long as I live.”
There is peace when you know you’ve done your best, when you’ve hung on to your integrity despite the pressures of the world. One simple example that comes to mind for me is driving the speed limit. I used to be a “lead foot” always on the look out for law enforcement who may not appreciate my “skill.” Once I embraced being more “lawful” in my highway driving, the more peace I had. No longer was I on the edge of my seat looking to the horizon or the skies for an officer who might “catch” me. What sinful behavior is it for you that you could change to feel that peace?
As Job tries to control his own sinful desires, he can’t help but call out wickedness in the world. Do you think it helps him maintain his own integrity to focus, and almost delight, in the woes of the wicked? An interesting thought to be sure.
For me, I prefer to focus on gratitude amid suffering. In any undesirable circumstance, when we look around for the positive blessings our distress lessens. When we’re stuck in the pit like Job, it can be hard to be optimistic. Try it next time you find yourself feeling lost, confused, or attacked in some way.
In whatever manner we cope with the challenges of life, relying on God to see us through is always the best. Job takes this a step further here with an oath or profession of his intentions. Job binds himself to God by relying on God. Job’s oath shows his intention to remain faithful. He realizes he will need God’s help to not break his promise.
The Bible warns us about making oaths. Numbers 30:2 says, “A man who makes a vow to the Lord or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. He must do exactly what he said he would do.” James 5:7 says, “But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.” Job’s vow to the LORD is the strength that has helped him endure the disasters he has faced.
Whatever coping mechanism you have found helpful in your life, I hope you’ve found success turning to God’s power. Here’s some great wisdom from James 1:2-4, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” What a good reminder!
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for how you’ve worked in my life to clean up the messes I’ve made. You never let go of me or gave up on me. Thank you for the strength you have given me in my times of weakness. You have always given me exactly what I need. Create in me a clean heart as I move forward into each new moment. Help me to overcome the distractions that keep my focus on other things and not on you. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
