When Faith Wrestles with God’s Justice

Why, Lord? Holding Onto Faith in the Midst of Pain

Seeking Answers in Suffering

Job’s Cry for a Mediator

Trusting God When Nothing Makes Sense

The Silence of God and the Longing for Justice

Reflections on Job 8–10

Suffering often forces us to ask hard questions about God’s justice, love, and sovereignty. In Job 8–10, we see Job wrestling with these very questions in the face of unimaginable loss. His friend, Bildad, argues for a rigid, transactional view of divine justice—one that leaves no room for mystery or grace. Job, on the other hand, knows he has done nothing to deserve such suffering, and he desperately seeks an audience with God to plead his case.

At the heart of these chapters is the age-old struggle: How can a just God allow the righteous to suffer? And even deeper still: Is nothing impossible for God? Can He bring justice where there seems to be none? Can He restore when all appears lost? Through Job’s journey, we learn that true faith does not ignore suffering, but rather wrestles with God in the midst of it.

1. Bildad’s Faulty Theology: Right Premise, Wrong Application (Job 8)

Bildad is offended that Job still claims innocence while questioning God’s justice. He argues that God could never pervert justice (Job 8:3), meaning that Job’s suffering must be the result of his sin. His reasoning follows a simple equation:

• God is just.

• God punishes the wicked.

• Therefore, if Job is suffering, Job must be wicked.

This argument mirrors Eliphaz’s earlier speech (Job 4–5) but with even less compassion. Bildad goes as far as to say that Job’s children died because of their wickedness (Job 8:4). Instead of comforting Job, he deepens his wound by suggesting that the deaths of his children were deserved.

Spurgeon warns against such heartless reasoning: “Let us beware of the trite answers of well-meaning men. A broken heart needs binding, not beating.”

Bildad also assumes that Job has placed his security in something other than God: “What he trusts in is fragile; what he relies on is a spider’s web.” (Job 8:14, NIV)

While it is true that only God offers lasting security, Bildad’s application is flawed. Job has not abandoned his faith; he is struggling to understand God in the midst of suffering. Bildad’s theology leaves no room for the mystery of divine testing, the refining of character, or the reality that suffering is sometimes undeserved.

Reflection: Where do we find our security? In wealth, relationships, or status? Only faith in God can sustain us when all else fails.

2. Job’s Plea: Where is My Mediator? (Job 9)

In Job 9, Job acknowledges that God is just but struggles to see how he, as a mere human, can contend with Him: “How can a mortal be righteous before God?” (Job 9:2, NIV)

He describes God’s unmatched power over creation: “He alone stretches out the heavens and treads on the waves of the sea. He is the Maker of the Bear and Orion, the Pleiades and the constellations of the south.” (Job 9:8-9, NIV)

Despite his awe for God, Job feels helpless. He believes that even if he were innocent, God’s greatness would overwhelm him, making it impossible to defend himself: “Even if I were innocent, my mouth would condemn me.” (Job 9:20, NIV)

Here, we see Job’s growing frustration. He knows he is not perfect, but he also knows his suffering is not the result of unconfessed sin. He longs for a mediator—someone who can stand between himself and God: “If only there were someone to mediate between us, someone to bring us together.” (Job 9:33, NIV)

Theodore of Mopsuestia notes: “Job foresaw the need for a Redeemer, one who could reconcile humanity to God. His longing was not in vain.”

This is one of the most profound moments in Job’s lament. Unknowingly, he is pointing toward Christ, the Mediator who would come to bridge the gap between God and humanity. What Job desires—someone to plead his case before God—is exactly what Jesus accomplishes through His death and resurrection (1 Timothy 2:5).

3. Job’s Despair: Is God Against Me? (Job 10)

In Job 10, Job moves from questioning God’s justice to feeling personally attacked: “Your hands shaped me and made me… Will you now destroy me?” (Job 10:8, NIV) His despair deepens as he assumes that God is actively working against him. Pain distorts his perspective, leading him to the false conclusion that God created him only to bring him suffering.

“Did you not… clothe me with skin and flesh and knit me together with bones and sinews? You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit. But this is what you concealed in your heart, and I know that this was in your mind.” (Job 10:8-13, NIV)

Job’s words reveal a raw and unfiltered struggle. Brueggemann insightfully comments: “Job’s cry is not faithlessness, but faith seeking understanding in the midst of suffering.”

Even in his despair, Job is still talking to God. He is still seeking answers. This is an important lesson for us: God can handle our questions. Faith is not the absence of doubt, but the willingness to keep engaging with God in the midst of it.

4. Is Nothing Impossible for God?

At this moment in Job’s story, things look bleak. Job sees no hope, and Bildad offers no comfort. But we know how Job’s story ends—God will speak, God will restore, and Job will come to a deeper knowledge of His Creator.

1. Job thinks he has no mediator → God provides one in Christ.

2. Job thinks his suffering is pointless → God uses it to refine and restore him.

3. Job thinks he is abandoned → God is closer than he realizes.

George MacDonald reminds us:“The purpose of God’s justice is not punishment, but correction, and ultimately, restoration.” Though Job does not yet see it, his suffering will lead to revelation. Is nothing impossible for God? Job’s story proves that even in the darkest night, God is working toward redemption.

Final Takeaway: Wrestling with God is Still Faith

Job 8–10 challenges us to:

• Beware of rigid theology. Bildad’s view of suffering was simplistic and lacked compassion.

• Acknowledge the mystery of suffering. Job did not understand why he suffered, but he kept seeking God.

• Trust that God is working even when we don’t see it. Job saw no way forward, but God was preparing his restoration.

• Believe that nothing is impossible for God. Even in our darkest moments, God is not absent.

Job’s story reminds us that God’s justice and grace are far greater than we can comprehend. If we, like Job, continue to seek Him—even through doubt and despair—we will find that He was with us all along. The suffering is not the end. Redemption is coming.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

When life feels unfair and suffering clouds my understanding, help me to trust You. Like Job, I bring my questions, my doubts, and my pain before You. Teach me to rest in Your justice, even when I cannot see Your plan. Remind me that nothing is impossible for You—that in my weakness, You are working for my good. Give me faith to hold on, patience to endure, and hope in Your perfect timing. In Jesus, my Mediator, I find peace. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Living with Blessed Assurance

Free Will and God’s Sovereignty

Trusting God’s Sovereignty While Embracing Responsibility

Come, Rest, and Respond: Living in God’s Sovereign Plan

Tension of Trusting God and Responding in Faith

The tension between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility is one of the great mysteries of the Christian faith. If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean we are absolved of responsibility for our actions? Do we truly have free will, or is everything pre-determined? The Bible consistently teaches both: God is in complete control, yet we are fully responsible for our choices.

This truth is beautifully reflected in today’s readings:

• Psalm 9:7–12 reminds us that God reigns forever, establishes justice, and protects the oppressed. His sovereignty is unshakable, yet the psalm also calls us to declare His deeds and place our trust in Him.

• Matthew 11:16–30 reveals the responsibility of those who witnessed the ministry of Jesus and John the Baptist. Despite seeing God’s works firsthand, many rejected the call to repentance and grace. Jesus laments their hard-heartedness, highlighting human responsibility in the face of divine revelation. Yet, in verses 28–30, He offers a tender invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This invitation demonstrates both God’s sovereignty in offering rest and humanity’s responsibility to respond.

• Genesis 29:1–30:43 recounts Jacob’s journey—filled with personal choices, struggles, and relationships. Despite human flaws, God’s sovereign purposes are fulfilled as He continues to build His covenant people.

Sovereignty and Free Will in Harmony

The Bible does not present God’s sovereignty and human free will as contradictory. Instead, it reveals how God’s overarching plan works through our decisions, actions, and even our failures. Let’s consider how these truths apply to our lives:

1. God’s Sovereignty Does Not Absolve Us of Responsibility

While God is sovereign, He calls us to live wisely and make responsible choices. Jacob’s story in Genesis shows that human actions have real consequences. Yet, even when Jacob’s decisions were driven by personal desires, God’s greater purpose—to establish the nation of Israel—was never thwarted. In the same way, our choices matter, but they do not undermine God’s ultimate plan.

2. Free Will Exists Within God’s Sovereign Plan

Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28 is both genuine and gracious: “Come to me.” This is a choice that each of us must make. God does not coerce us; He invites us. His sovereignty ensures that His purposes will be accomplished, but our responsibility lies in responding to His invitation with faith and trust.

3. God’s Sovereignty Brings Assurance, Not Fatalism

Knowing that God reigns eternally (Psalm 9:7) should not lead us to fatalism but to assurance. In a world that often feels chaotic, God’s sovereignty anchors us. We can rest in the knowledge that He is working all things for good (Romans 8:28). This truth is not an excuse for passivity but an encouragement to live boldly, trusting that our lives are in His hands.

The Invitation to Rest

Perhaps the most comforting words in today’s readings come from Jesus in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

This invitation speaks to those who feel overwhelmed by life’s burdens, whether they stem from external circumstances or the weight of their own decisions. Jesus invites us to exchange our weariness for His rest, our striving for His peace.

His invitation is a call to trust in God’s sovereignty while actively embracing our responsibility to come to Him, learn from Him, and walk in step with Him. The yoke Jesus offers is easy, not because life becomes devoid of struggle, but because we are no longer bearing the weight alone. We walk with the One who is sovereign over all.

Living in the Tension

As Christians, we live in the tension between trusting God’s sovereignty and embracing our responsibility. We are not passive spectators in life, nor are we burdened by the impossible task of controlling everything. Instead, we are called to:

1. Trust in God’s perfect plan and timing, knowing He reigns forever.

2. Respond in faith and obedience, making choices that honor Him.

3. Rest in the assurance that, even when we falter, His purposes will prevail.

In this tension, we find freedom—not the freedom to live irresponsibly, but the freedom to live confidently, knowing that God is working all things together for our good and His glory.

Will You Respond?

The question is not whether God is sovereign—He reigns eternally. The question is how we will respond. Will we, like those in Matthew 11 who rejected Jesus, resist His invitation? Or will we come to Him, weary as we are, and find rest for our souls?

God’s sovereignty does not negate our responsibility; it empowers us to live courageously. Today, may you find peace in trusting His sovereign hand while faithfully walking in obedience. And may you respond to Jesus’ invitation, knowing that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28

Prayer:

Lord, You reign forever, and Your purposes stand firm through every generation. Thank You for inviting us to come to You with our burdens and find rest in Your perfect plan. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty while walking faithfully in obedience. Give us wisdom in our choices, courage in our responsibility, and peace in knowing that You are in control. May we find joy in being yoked to Christ, whose yoke is easy and burden is light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Hope for the New Year

Trusting God’s Plans

Seeking God Wholeheartedly in Uncertain Times

Moving Forward with Hope and Purpose

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:8-14

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

Reflection:

As we enter a new year, Jeremiah’s words remind us of God’s unwavering faithfulness and His sovereign plans for our lives. This passage was written to the exiles in Babylon, a people living in uncertain and troubling times. Yet, even in their captivity, God encouraged them to move forward, live their lives, and trust in His promises.

The hope God offers is not dependent on favorable circumstances but on His unchanging character. His plans for us may not exempt us from hardships, but they are filled with purpose, restoration, and the assurance of His presence. God calls us to seek Him wholeheartedly, trusting that He is near and that His plans for us are good, even when we cannot see the full picture.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let us reflect on how God has been faithful in the past and trust Him with the uncertainties of the future. Let us also remember to pray for those in authority, even when it feels difficult, knowing that God works through all situations for His glory and our good.

Prayer Focus:

Pray for hope and clarity as you navigate the year ahead. Ask God to help you trust His plans, even in times of uncertainty or trouble. Commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly and surrendering your desires to His will.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for Your faithfulness and for the hope You give, even in the midst of challenges. As I step into this new year, I surrender my plans to You and trust that Your plans are far better than anything I could imagine. Give me clarity in the days ahead and strengthen my heart to seek You with all that I am. Help me to walk forward with confidence, knowing that You are with me and Your plans are for my good. Teach me to pray for those in authority, trusting that You are sovereign over all things. May my life reflect Your glory this year. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Gratitude Journal:

1. Thank You, Lord, for new beginnings & the hope You promise.
2. For the reminder that You are with me in every season of life.
3. For the privilege of prayer and the assurance that You hear me.

Intentions for the Day:

1. Seek God’s presence in prayer with a whole heart.
2. Reflect on past moments of His faithfulness to build confidence in the future.
3. Commit to trusting His plans, even when circumstances seem unclear.

May this reflection guide your heart into the new year with hope and trust in the One who holds all your days .

Soli Deo Gloria

Shepherding in the Storm

Leading God’s People Through Suffering

Humble Leadership and Faithful Endurance

Standing Firm in the Fire

God’s Grace in Suffering

In 1 Peter 5, the apostle Peter addresses the leadership and care of God’s people, especially during times of suffering. He calls for humility, vigilance, and trust in God, both for leaders and the flock. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder of God’s presence and provision in trials and the responsibility of leaders to guide others with wisdom and compassion.

1. The Role of the Shepherd (1 Peter 5:1-4)

Peter exhorts elders to shepherd God’s flock willingly, not for selfish gain but with a servant’s heart. He emphasizes the importance of modeling Christ-like leadership. Matthew Henry observes, “A minister’s care must be directed to souls, not to their persons, estates, or worldly concerns, but to their spiritual condition.”

Eugene Peterson reminds us that true shepherding is rooted in humility and relational care: “The job of the shepherd is to lead, feed, and protect—not to dominate or exploit.” Leaders must remember they are accountable to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, whose return will bring eternal rewards (v.4).

Charles Spurgeon adds, “The best pastors are those who shepherd not for their own honor, but for the love of Christ and His sheep.” This echoes Jesus’ command in John 21:16: “Feed my sheep.”

2. Humility and Trust in Suffering (1 Peter 5:5-7)

Peter calls both leaders and the flock to humility, urging them to submit to one another and to God. C.S. Lewis famously said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” This humility positions us to cast our anxieties on God, knowing He cares for us.

Derek Prince emphasizes that casting our burdens on God is an act of trust: “When you cast your cares upon Him, you are acknowledging His sovereignty and your dependence on Him.” Similarly, Rick Warren points out, “God’s care is constant. It’s not occasional or sporadic. He is always watching over you.”

3. Spiritual Vigilance Against the Enemy (1 Peter 5:8-9)

Peter warns of the devil, who prowls like a roaring lion seeking to devour. Believers are urged to resist him by standing firm in faith. Alexander Maclaren highlights the importance of this vigilance: “The Christian life is not a playground but a battlefield. Watchfulness is a perpetual necessity.”

David Guzik explains, “Satan’s attacks are fierce, but they are not irresistible. The strength to stand comes from the God of  all grace.” N.T. Wright adds, “We resist the devil by remembering that we stand not alone but as part of a worldwide fellowship of believers.”

4. God’s Grace and Restoration (1 Peter 5:10-11)

In the midst of suffering, Peter reminds believers that God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish them. This assurance echoes Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 4:17: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

John Calvin reflects, “God allows suffering to refine His people, but He never leaves them in the fire longer than necessary.” Similarly, Henri Nouwen writes, “In the midst of suffering, God does not abandon us but draws us closer to His heart.”

Dallas Willard underscores the transformative power of suffering: “Pain is often where the deepest growth in Christ takes place.”

5. The Call to Leadership and Endurance

Walter Brueggemann notes that Peter’s message is deeply pastoral: “The call to shepherd God’s people is a call to walk alongside them, offering hope and direction in the wilderness of suffering.”

Timothy Keller reminds leaders and believers alike that “The gospel gives us the resources to face suffering with joy, knowing that Christ suffered for us and now walks with us.” Leaders must guide with humility and courage, trusting in God’s ultimate plan.

Prayer

Father, thank You for being our Chief Shepherd, guiding us through every trial. Help us to walk humbly, casting our cares upon You and resisting the enemy with firm faith. Strengthen our leaders to serve with love and integrity, reflecting Christ’s care for His flock. May we trust in Your grace and restoration, knowing You are with us always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria