Scriptures abound that teach us to look at God’s creation in wonder and amazement. How many of us look at God’s creation with eyes of wonder and amazement? Scriptures abound encouraging us to pray for others. How many of us pray for others when we ourselves are struggling?
In a recent devotional reading I was in Job chapter 42. Job has spent 30+ chapters being accused by friends and family of being a terrible person. Job’s accusers believed God was punishing him with all his suffering.
After all this rejection and verbal abuse, Job takes it out on God and pridefully begins to complain to Him. Of course, God sets both Job and his friends straight. Then Job humbles himself before God in remorse and apology.
Job recognized God’s goodness among all creation which brought him to humility. This humility then brought Job to a place where he could pray for those who had accused him. It was in this place that his vindication and restoration began.
AFTER Job stopped arguing with his accusers.
AFTER Job stopped trying to tell God what to do.
AFTER Job stopped his pity party.
AFTER Job stopped looking at himself.
Only then was he able to pray for his friends. Then God was able to bring about restoration. This was actually more than restoration because the Bible says God blessed Job with double what he had lost.
You can’t stay in a pity party and contemplate a tree blowing in the wind.
You can’t stay in despair and listen to the birds sing.
You can’t stay mad at your spouse and play with your pet.
Whatever your struggle is today, step outside and contemplate God’s marvelous creations that surround you. Find peace and grace there.
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