Michael’s Bible Journal October 20-26

In Job 9:29, Job, an afflicted righteous man shares, “If I am condemned, Why then do I labor in vain?” This verse certainly strikes a chord with believers who are experiencing trials in their lives despite not indulging in sin or living as the world does. The Christian walk is often painful, sometimes flaked with misunderstandings and disconnects, but it is never meaningless. “I have told you these things, so that in me you will have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jesus in John 16:33). I find great encouragement in seeing our work as eternal, not performed in an effort to buy God’s blessing. The work on this earth truly is about what we build and the lives we touch while are here temporarily. It is done out of love. When troubles arise, don’t let your mind drift towards wondering whether your labors have been lacking. Rather press onward in intimacy with God, who is with you in your trouble.