make a difference – Be Still…

Job 33:1-33 – The Youngster Speaks

Read Job 33:1-33

Interesting how Eliju took a whole chapter just to prepare us for his speech, and here we discover what the “youngster” has to say about things. A different generation may not look at Job the same as a peer. Who are Job’s peers? He had grown children living separate lives. I have grown children with lives apart from me (that’s the hardest part of missionary life)! Job would be my peer, or at least in the same “season” of life as me. I can’t imagine losing everything like he did. Does a younger person even begin to imagine such loss?

What do you think of Eliju now? Has your opinion changed? Or is Eliju just a little too “cocky” or sure of himself. Eliju is someone that God loved and used for a purpose. We don’t have to like guy to respect him. Continue reading “Job 33:1-33 – The Youngster Speaks”

Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 – It’s Temporary

Read Ecclesiastes 4:13-16

Was Solomon speaking from experience here? Did he see himself as that wise youth who grew into a foolish king? If we look at Solomon’s life, that might appear to be the case. You may recall that God came to Solomon in a dream as a young king. 1 Kings 3:5 says, “That night the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, ‘What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!’”

At that time, we know that Solomon loved the Lord, but already he was offering sacrifices to the local gods. Yet God still asked the question. Solomon’s response was as follows: “Now, O Lord my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around. And here I am in the midst of your own chosen people, a nation so great and numerous they cannot be counted! Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” (1 Kings 3:7-9) Solomon’s wisdom was a gift from God.

Nehemiah 2:1-10 – Ask Boldly

Read Nehemiah 2:1-10

Just picture this scene happening. Nehemiah has clearly been lamenting over what is happening in his homeland. Now it’s starting to affect his work. His boss, the king, can see his sadness and inquires with compassion. It sounds like Nehemiah was shocked by the inquiry, not sure how much he should share.

With boldness after his initial fear, Nehemiah shares his desire to return to his homeland and make a difference there. Without hesitation it seems, the king granted Nehemiah’s request. God’s hand was working it all out. That had to be a great relief as well as inspiration to Nehemiah. Being used by God is exhilarating!