If we only seek the Lord in hard times, would it surprise us if He kept us in hard times so we do?
If Job’s friends have the bedside manner of “worthless physicians” (Job 13:4), and if they would rather criticize than console, he would return words in kind. What does he think of their supposedly finely-crafted arguments? “Your platitudes are proverbs of ashes, your defenses are defenses of clay” (v 12). He knows a bit about ashes and clay, seeing he’s sitting in an ash heap and scraping his skin with a clay shard! Ashes are evidence that the energy is spent, the fire gone out. So their proverbs are without warmth or light, and their arguments crumble as easily as clay. Of course, making such claims raises the bar for Job’s comments, something we should keep in mind when assessing what others say. As the Lord reminded us, “For…with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you” (Mt 7:2). What does the sufferer say? Now it’s my turn (Job 13:13), he begins, and I just can’t “hold my tongue” (v 19). I know it’s taking “my life in my hands” to risk it. In fact, it’s more painful than that. It’s like taking a bite out of myself to be transparent with the Lord (v 14). But before we can hear what else he has to say, he stops us in our tracks with one of the greatest statements of faith to be found anywhere: “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (v 15). He wants to be honest with God, not “a hypocrite” (v 16). “Only two things” (v 20) he asks God not to do. “Withdraw Your hand far from me, and let not the dread of You make me afraid” (v 21). He wants to draw near while not being overwhelmed either by God’s power or presence. Of course, he knew nothing of the rent veil, the blood-sprinkled way, or the Advocate with nail-pierced hands. But we do. Then let us come with glad assurance today and pour our hearts out to God. Cast your care on Him. “He cares for you” (1 Pet 5:7).