REMAINING UNSHAKEN IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS
MARCH 20, 2025
TEXT: And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. (JOB 1: 21)
Today, we shall examine the life of a “strange, mysterious and spiritually-mature man named Job. Job was described as one of the wealthiest men in the east. He has lots of livestock for agricultural and economic purpose. He also had seven sons and three daughters, and everything seemed to be going on smoothly until one particular day when the devil, having observed him for a while, sought God’s permission to lay hands on his possessions, claiming that it would make him backslide. God permitted satan to test Job in the above manner and he lost virtually everything he owned; yet he worshipped God and never blamed God,much to the devil’s chagrin.
Feeling defeated, the devil sought for permission to lay hands on Job himself, claiming that it would make him backslide. The devil did exactly that, yet Job remained unperturbed, even with so much boils and injuries on his body.
The level of confidence and maturity displayed by this man called Job is one that beats man’s imagination. It is highly inexplicable that a man should go through such afflictions, yet still cleave tenaciously unto God.
Just like this man, some circumstances in form of tempests and storms may befall us and almost make us doubt the existence of God himself. However,some of these events are basically meant to refine us and strengthen us, rather than to kill us. Below are some key reasons why God allows us to pass through some temptations:
1) To prepare us for futuristic challenges that may come our way in ministry, career, academics, etc . He that overcomes a minor hurdle will mostly have the needed impetus to overcome a greater one. (Job 40:1-2)
2) To refine our faith in God. Our faith ultimately becomes refined when it passes through trials. (1 Peter 1:6-7)
3) To reveal our true character and disposition towards God. Satan was so sure that Job was only faithful to God because of God’s blessings. However, to his utter shock, he realized that even after taking away his all and even injuring him, Job remained unwavering in his commitment to God. (Psalm 11:4-5)
4) Also, it can boost our faith and trust in God. This is because when we navigate a difficult circumstance today successfully with the help of God, there is a level of courage that is instilled on is concerning similar events that may transpire in the future.
SEARCHLIGHT: Afflictions and temptations are usually not to mar, but to make us.
PRAYERS: God, give me the grace to withstand the day of adversity, in Jesus Mighty name.
BIBLE READING; 2 Samuel 16-18, 1 Corinthians 16
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
