HAPPY…BIRTHDAY

Today’s Reading: Job 5-6

Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion).

In present-day Nazareth, first century family life is re-created at a place called Nazareth Village.

GOOGLE MAPS – To see where the photo was taken, click HERE.

Key Verse: Job 5:17

Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; Therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty.

The above statement was made by Eliphaz to Job. Eliphaz had a good grasp on truth, but let us remember that the words of Job and his friends are their opinions. They are accurately recorded in the inspired Scriptures as being what Job’s friends said. Our key verse can be considered to be “Truth” because when we compare Scripture with Scripture, it stands the test. For example, we may want to read Hebrews 12:5-11.

In everyday life we know those (maybe ourselves) who are suffering because of the sins and failures of others, or because of circumstances beyond control. Job did not know why he was going through such testing, but in it all he retained his faith in God. Someone has said, “A believer is like tea; real strength only comes out when we are put into hot water.” The Apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 2:19-25 about the example of Jesus in enduring suffering. God’s plan is to make us like His Son and our Saviour, Jesus. Suffering temporarily is included in that plan. It is not meant to defeat or destroy us but to strengthen and refine us as gold, purified in the fire.

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, I pray for strength to endure any suffering that may come to me. I worship You, Lord God! In the Name of Jesus, the One who “learned obedience by the things which He suffered,” Amen!!! (Hebrews 5:7 & 8).

100 PERSONAL WORDS:

Today is Norma-Jean’s birthday. Happy Birthday my darling wife! Thank you for sticking with me throughout 59 years as of this September 19th. God has allowed testing in your life and you have come through as fine gold. I think that I’ve been a big test for you! Thank you for passing the test and continuing to love.

If you keep reading to the end of the book of Job, you’ll find a happy ending with a family larger than the original one!

Yours to celebrate,

David

A family birthday celebration for David & Norma-Jean, August 14th, 2017 (their birthdays are on the 13th & 14th). David went home to be with Jesus just over a month later.