“If I am guilty– woe to me! Even if I am innocent, I cannot lift my head, for I am full of shame and drowned in my affliction.”
Job 10:15 (NIV)
In his state of confusion, pain, and agony Job could not find any comfort. He was so overwhelmed by the tragic events that he could find no joy or gladness anywhere. When tragedy strikes, like Job we transpose the love and goodness of God into frowns and rejection. Yet, when we are confused about our issues, it is best to restrain our tongue, be faithful, and ask God to give us understanding.
In today’s Scripture passage, Job is trying to understand the causes and reasons of what has occurred in his life. He didn’t know what to say, and perhaps so distraught that he hardly knew what he said. He turned to his beliefs and theology to find the answer, and shows us his true concern. On the one hand, if he was guilty of wickedness, he was doomed. On the other hand, if he was innocent of wickedness, he was drowning in shame.
Why would Job, or anyone in his circumstances, be concerned about personal shame? Is he afraid of what his friends and acquaintances are going to say about him? Is he worried about his reputation? Does he think that his righteousness in God should somehow shield him from such tragic events? Has he concluded that the tragic events have somehow made him appear less righteous? Definitely, this righteous man is confused about God and himself. His is a confusion of spirit and mind. He is so distracted with trying to figure things out that he can’t figure things out, he can’t think straight.
Like Job, we all want to figure out and understand the situations of our lives. And certainly no thinking person would fault us for it. Yet, we all may come to the same conclusion: in some cases the only comfort is in God’s loving heart. He is always a merciful Father.
Dear Father, thank you for your comfort in all circumstances. Empower us with faith that conquers all fear. In all our circumstances, enable us to trust your grace and seek understanding from you. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and trust God’s grace,