I stand amazed at how God’s Word speaks directly into our hearts. When His Word comes at just the right moment in time, I realize anew – God is a God of time as much as He is a God of timing. And there truly can be nothing like a word which is perfectly timed.
Enter Children of the Day Bible Study by Beth Moore.
I picked the study because well, quite frankly, it seemed like it would be “safe”. It is supposed to be about shining brightly. Never being without His light wherever life may find you.
I’m in – let me learn about shining brightly. It should be an upbeat positive message which includes no pain, no difficulties, easy peasy. And besides, it’s Beth – it has to be GOOD!
And then came week 4 and she had us turn to Job. Can I just say, “YUCK!” I didn’t want to read Job as it makes me think of difficulties and quite frankly, I want to be done with difficulties. Can I hear an “Amen” cause seriously, I really need to know I am not alone in thinking like this. Sorry, I digress, so let me get back to Job, who says this:
“What strength do I have that I should continue to hope? What is my future, that I should be patient? Is my strength that of stone, or my flesh made of bronze? Since I cannot help myself, the hope for success has been banished from me.”
(Job 6:11-13)
Job was pretty down. But you truly have to give the guy an A+++ for honesty. And not for nothing, God did not strike him dead either.
So here is what I learned from Job and Beth ….
The root of hopelessness stems from thinking, “I have no strength. I cannot help myself. I have no hope of success (or of accomplishing what I desire).
We become hopeless when we focus on the thought (or belief) that God failed us or let us down or will refuse to come through for us. {{OUCH!!}}
Job stated his thoughts, and his feelings, to God. BUT then he got a grip on things. He couldn’t help himself because He needed God. <—- Truth right there so look back at it. Job needed God to change his situation and we need God to do the same. Each one of us. In our situations. Right where we are.
Let these truths sink in deep!
- God is your help.
- He will help you.
- God is your strength.
- The outcome to your situation does not depend on you and your abilities.
- Your future is bright in Him.
So let’s fill our minds with these truths because His Word tells us these things and His Word is TRUTH….
“Let us hold onto the confession of our hope without wavering, for HE WHO PROMISED IS FAITHFUL.” (Hebrews 10:23)
Concentrate on this today ….
Let’s rein in our thoughts,
and
let Him reign!!!
I am joining with … Coffee For Your Heart and Three Word Wed. and Winsome Wed. and Wedded Wed. and Wed. Prayer Girls and Works For Me and Whimsical Wed. and The Missional Weekend .
Hi Joanne, I found your blog in the link up party on Holly Gerth: Coffee For Your Heart.
Just recently the verse Hebrews 10:23 was brought to my memory. Thank you for confirming His word to me. Blessings.
I am grateful He confirmed His word to you! I have gone back to that verse repeatedly the last week or so 🙂 Thank you for stopping here. Blessings!
I get what you’re saying about the heavier issues that are found in Job, but I recently read through it and found it to be so penetrating and encouraging (ironically!). Sort of like the verse you’re highlighting here, Joann. And your insight about how we must recognize where we are putting our hope when we feel “hopeless” is so good! I have many people who turn to me with hopeless feelings and problems. This is just the message they need to hear (as do I!), so I’ll be sharing! Thanks so much for your authenticity and wise words, my friend!
Beth, I stand corrected because I do find Job encouraging once I wade through to the end. I truly need to remember to rein in my thoughts from the start as opposed to once they have gone awry. Grateful you shared with me!
Thank you for sharing these thoughts, Joann. God has been dealing with me of late about coming to the end of oneself – leaving everything with Him, not easy, but doable by His grace and the power of His Holy Spirit! Your devotion continues to highlight those thoughts. God continue to bless you richly!
Grateful that it highlighted thoughts you have been mulling over. And you are right, Cindy, most times it is not easy at all to lay it down but it is doable as He gives us His strength. I am glad you shared! Blessings!
Joanne, “Children of the Day” Beth Moore study has really been speaking to me, too. Thanks for reminding me of where my strength comes from!
It is a wonderful study! Well…. all of hers are 🙂
I have yet to read a Beth Moore book or do one of her studies. I think it may be about time I change that. And lately there have been many bloggers who have shared on the book of Job. I think it’s about time I read that book too. Always encouraged from your message and as always, love the way you share how God’s word speaks to you. Much love. xoxo
Beth, I am glad you found the post encouraging. You really must grab one of her books. Each are so wonderful! You will surely be blessed! Hope you are having a wonderful weekend. Thank you for sharing your husband with all of us to protect the freedoms we all enjoy each day! Much love!
So glad we don’t have to go it alone! God is indeed our help, strength, and will fight for us!
Kimberly, all I can add is “Amen!” I am so grateful He fights for us!
I really like this. Job is hard to read, isn’t it? But so worth it!
I’ve lived a Job kind of life, Joanne. And like Job, I’ve learned what it means to choose thankfullness… it brings joy!
Your words are lovely to a soul. 🙂
Blessings,
Heather
Heather, thank you for encouraging me with your comment. You are so right – thankfulness is a choice we must make each day. Blessings!