Keep Your Eyes on the Big Issue - Conclusion of A LESSON IN PERSPECTIVE

Was Jehovah harsh in giving such straightforward counsel after Job had endured so severe a trial?  God was not, and Job did not think so. Despite is ordeal, Job finally began to speak appreciatively. He even stated:  "I take back what I said, and I repent in dust and ashes."  Such was the effect of Jehovah's pointed but refreshing counsel.  (Job 42:1-6)  Earlier, Job has also received corrective counsel from young Elihu.  (Job 32:5-10)  After Job responded to God's reproof and corrected his view, Jehovah expressed to others his approval of Job's faithfulness under trial. -Job 42:7, 8.

Jehovah's counsel would continue to benefit job even after his trials were over.  How so?  Well, though "Jehovah blessed the last part of  Job's life more than the beginning," restoration and recovery must have taken time.  He later "came to have seven more sons and three more daughters."  (Job 42:12-14)  Surely Job missed his children who died earlier at Satan's hand.  For some time, he likely experienced vivid memories of his suffering.  Even if he eventually better understood the reason for his trials, he may on occasion have thought about why it was necessary for him to suffer to such an extent.  Whatever his thoughts, he could reflect on God's counsel.  Doing so would help him maintain the proper perspective and, in turn, provide comfort. -Psalm 94:19. 

We too can acquire proper perspective and gain comfort from the account of Job.  After all, Jehovah had it preserved "for our instruction,so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope."  (Romans 15:4)  What is the lesson for us?  Primarily this: Let us not become so absorbed in our own lives that we lose sight of this big issue-the vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty. And let us appreciate  that our role in this vital issue entails remaining faithful even under difficult circumstances, as did Job.  

Why is it comforting to reflect on the value of faithfulness?  Because it means that our trials serve a purpose. Far from indicating Jehovah's displeasure, they provide for  us a means to show that we support God's sovereignty.  (Proverbs 27:11) Our endurance  produces "an approved condition" and strengthens  our hope.  (Read Romans 5:3-5)  The record of Job bears out that "Jehovah is very tender in affection and merciful."  (James 5:11) So we can be sure that he will reward us and all who uphold his sovereignty. Knowing this helps us "endure fully with patience and joy." -Colossians 1:11. 

Next time: Keep Your Eyes on the Big Issue - REMAINING FOCUSED 

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