Reading the Word

Job 38:1–7 (ESV)

1 Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:

2 “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?
3 Dress for action like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.

4 “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me, if you have understanding.
5 Who determined its measurements—surely you know!
Or who stretched the line upon it?
6 On what were its bases sunk,
or who laid its cornerstone,
7 when the morning stars sang together
and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

Understanding and Applying the Word

How often do you question God? Have you ever wondered why certain things happen and think, “This is not right and God should not allow such a thing?” This was the mindset of Job when he lost his family and was stricken with sores all over his body that tormented him. He felt it was not fair and that if he could get an audience with God, he would make his case and prove why it was not right.

Job finally got his audience with God and God’s response to Job is partially recorded in our reading for today. In it, God pointed out that Job did not have full understanding of all things and therefore could not see the entire picture. Job was wrong in his assessment because of his lack of knowledge and understanding.

The thing that Job most needed to learn was to trust in God even in the difficult times and when all of the “Why?” questions are not answerable. We all need to learn this lesson because many of the things we go through in life will be for unknown reasons, but we can be assured that God’s plans and purposes are for good and that they never fail.

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