Existing in Anguish

Whether we realize it or not, we have all “existed in anguish”, these are moments when we feel like all is lost; times when we feel that the righteous have truly been forsaken. During these times of turmoil, the Holy Spirit has consistently lead me to the book of Job in the Old Testament.
And while many may describe the book of Job as unjust and unfair, it is in its simplicity one of the most beautiful and eloquent books of the Bible. It is one of love, devotion and divine restoration.
Job was a man “totally devoted to God and hated evil with a passion.”
(Job 1:1 MSG) However, God allowed Satan to test Job. Job not only lost great wealth but all ten of his children! In spite of this, Job maintained his faith and “did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing” (Job 1:22 NIV) Next came an attack on Job’s health. “So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and afflicted Job with painful sores fro the soles of his feet to the top of his head.” (Job 2:7 NIV) Even Job’s wife told him to “Curse god and die!” (Job 2:9 NIV)
Like many of us have done in times of great grief, Job calls out to God and asks why? But unlike so many of us (myself included), Job remains true to God! Through this tumultuous time, Job asks God to respond to him and God answers him literally in the “midst of the storm.” (Job 38:1 NIV) During this exchange, God makes it clear that Job is not HIS equal and HE does not owe an explanation for HIS will. (Job 38) Instead, God humbles Job with tales of HIS majestic creations. (Job 38:5-30 NIV) God is not angry with Job but shows HIS infinite love by restoring all Job had lost with double measure. (Job 42:10 NIV)
Below, please find several points to help you. Remember seasons change and at some time in our lives we will experience the season of anguish. It is my continued prayer that you remain strong in the LORD and that the Holy Spirit will always bring to your remembrance who your FATHER is and what great things HE has done and continues to do even in the midst of our own disobedience and sin. BE BLESSED!
Trust in God! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV)
Don’t hide your feelings from God-call out to God in prayer. “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24 NIV)
Seek Godly counsel. “Blessed is the man who dies not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.”
(Psalm 1:1 NIV)
Remain faithful to God. “Be faithful even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10 NIV)
Prayer of Strength
Lord, I ask that you give me strength to endure the race that is set before me. I know that when You created me and adopted me into Your family, You gave me what I need to stand in faith. Help me to resist the wiles of Satan by using Your Word as my sword. Please allow me to be sober and vigilant; humble and faithful. Let Your Word penetrate into my heart and begin to change me from the inside out. I love you so much and I want to stand for you Jesus. Thank you that through You, I already have the victory in everything. I love you! Amen