“Oh, that I knew where I might find Him, That I might [even] come to His seat! “Behold, I go forward (to the east), but He is not there; I go backward (to the west), but I cannot perceive Him; To the left (north) He turns, but I cannot behold Him; He turns to the right hand (south), but I cannot see Him. But He knows the way that I take [and He pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I will come forth as [refined] gold [pure and luminous].”

‭‭Job‬ ‭23:3, 8-10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Prior to Satan’s testing, Job walked closely with G-d. They experienced close communion – daily conversation – much like you would with your closest friend. 

Then silence. 

Job was devastated. 

In Job’s darkest hour and most desperate need,  when he needed the comfort of his closest friend, Job felt abandoned and he couldn’t hear to voice of the One he loved most. 

Job lived an upright and blameless life (Job 1:1). And, as a result of right living, G-d gave Satan permission – TWICE- to afflict Job and twice Job “maintained and held tightly to his integrity” (Job 2:3). 

Suffering is a guarantee in the life of a Believer. We can’t escape it by living a certain way. We can’t outrun it by being “good enough”. It will happen. We will experience it. We have to go through it. 

Suffering has an end goal 

• refined character. 

No matter where you find yourself today, keep going. Don’t give up. Press in. Take one more breath. Hold on a little longer. 

The heat you feel is refining you. 

Approximately 15 years ago at a worship event at Shady Grove Church, visiting Pastor Gary Weins said, “G-d will give you every chance to be offended to see if you will pass the test. He is coming for an  unoffended bride for a Son who is worthy.” 

Job understood this. I fail time and time again and He graciously gives me another test knowing I’ll pass if I just keep trying. 

Father, forgive me for being offended at You for the pain I’m walking through. You’re a good Shepard who provides, positions, and protects me. My times are in Your hands. Your leadership in my life is perfect and I trust You. Give me strength and grace to keep going and to keep growing. Give me grace to stay in the heat a little longer. Amen.