Read

Isaiah 43:2-3: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

Job 42:5: “I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?’ It is I—and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me. You said, ‘Listen and I will speak! I have some questions for you, and you must answer them.’ I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.”

Think

Every person will have a time in his life when something falls apart; crises are but inevitable acts we all must face. It's easy, in these moments, to question the nature of God. Why would a loving God allow such pain? However, it's imperative to remember that while God allows these trials, he doesn’t instigate them. The story of Job illustrates this point. Satan, out of spite and malice, wanted to tear down Job's faith. Yet, even in Job's most profound suffering, God never abandoned him.

God's commitment to staying by our side during crises is more than just a comforting sentiment. It's a promise. Isaiah paints a vivid picture of this assurance. Whether we're drowning in metaphorical waters of despair or burning in the fires of tribulation, God pledges his unwavering presence.

These trials can often serve as avenues to a deeper relationship with God. At the end of his ordeal, Job had an epiphany. He moved from knowing about God to genuinely knowing him – profoundly and intimately. Job had made assumptions about God in his pain but never stopped talking to him. He ultimately was humbled in the presence of his holy and righteous God who loved him, and it transformed Job. God's desire is not for us to suffer but for us to draw closer to him through every experience, especially the painful ones. Sometimes, God allows what he hates to accomplish what he loves.

Apply

Next time you find yourself in a crisis or see someone else undergoing a trial, pause and remind yourself (or them) of God's presence. Let it not be a moment of questioning God's intentions, but rather an opportunity to deepen your relationship with him. Share the story of Job with someone this week, emphasizing the ultimate revelation Job had about God's character and his relationship with him.

Pray

Father, in my crisis moments, help me to always remember your presence and promises. Even when the path gets rocky, and the storms rage on, let me feel your unwavering support and love. Deepen my relationship with you, especially during the trials, and allow me to see your purpose in every situation. In Jesus' name. Amen.