Devotional for 11/8/15
What does it mean to "give and take"? In some instances it can mean compromise, a little "give and take" to get along together. In other situations it means a healthy exchange of ideas - the "give and take" of discussions. At other times the phrase can indicate that something once given is later taken away.
Job 1:21 (NIV) “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”
Some have debated whether God would ever give something just to later take it away. They argue that God only gives good gifts and would never take them away. Some even go so far as to say that Job, in the verse above, didn't know what he was talking about. They say that Job later realized it was Satan who was responsible for the "take away" part of his life. But that would deny the following verse where Job is said to be speaking truth:
Job 1:22 (NIV) "In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing."
Job rightly understood that God is in charge of life. That is not to say that God causes suffering, but he allows trials and can work through the sufferings that Satan means for evil. Sometimes we face trials that test our faith and make us stronger. Because of our sinfulness, Satan continues to mess with our lives. God gave Adam and Eve the whole garden of Eden except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But when they disobeyed him, he took it away as a result, not because he is mean but because their actions were sinful and had consequences. Parents discipline their children because they love them and want ultimate good for them in the long run. Just like Job praised God in the same breath that he stated God gives and takes away, God desires all of us to turn to him in our troubles, and in turn we provide a great witness to others.
Dear Lord in heaven, creator and giver of all things, we know that you love us even when we face trials in this life. Help us to remain faithful no matter what is given or taken away from us. Continue to forgive us when we falter, and give us the strength to carry on in faith and provide a great witness to others of your love and mercy. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Written by Jan Andersen
Song: Blessed Be Your Name
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