When your friends are suffering

Friends,

The Lord uses many arms to comfort us when we are struggling. He comes to us, of course, in prayer. He speaks to us through His word. And, at times, He sends one of His children to be the bearer of strength and the provider of edification.

Unfortunately, when we are sent to represent the strong arms of Christ, our thoughts and words are vulnerable to being infiltrated by the enemy. And instead of being a source of comfort in times of trouble, we turn into the foot that kicks a brother when he's down. Our brother Job experienced this firsthand.

Job 6:15 [NKJV]
But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams,
as the streams that overflow

Now, the "brothers" he was describing weren't really brothers -- or even friends -- at all ... and they certainly weren't there to represent God. They accused Job relentlessly, peppering him with insult after bitter insult. Nevertheless they serve as a cautionary example for those of us who are God's ambassadors on this earth.

Ephesians 5:19 [NKJV]
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord

These words from Paul should be at the forefront of our heart when we go to offer comfort to one who is suffering and struggling. Instead of harsh accusations, we are to bring the word of God. That is truly the only genuine source of peace, strength and joy for the heart that is hurting.

Be encouraged, Jose

My Redeemer lives

“Look, I go forward, but He is not there, and backward, but I cannot perceive Him; When He works on the left hand, I cannot behold Him; When He turns to the right hand, I cannot see Him. But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.
Job 23:8-10 (NKJV)

A lifetime summary is a synopsis of the beginning, mid and end of the exploits of someone. This summary gives a detailed and full perspective view of the entire history of the person and not just part of it. The story and summary of Job was almost defined by his worst season when he lost all he had. But he (Job) never succumbed to the limited and transient challenging moment of his life, neither did he base his next life's decision based on the tragic turn of events in his life.

For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth;
Job 19:25 (NKJV)

In a season, it may be hard to perceive the presence of the Creator in some of our circumstances and situations. We must refused to be defined by just our present circumstances. Our life is in God's hands. Even though we may not see or feel Him like Job, we know after he has tested us, we shall come forth as gold.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi