I Will Maintain

SCRIPTURE
Job 27:2-6 As surely as God lives, who has denied me justice, the Almighty, who has made me taste bitterness of soul, as long as I have life within me, the breath of God in my nostrils, my lips will not speak wickedness, and my tongue will utter no deceit. I will never admit you are in the right; till I die, I will not deny my integrity. I will maintain my righteousness and never let go of it; my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live.


OBSERVATION
Because Job is being persecuted, he has been accused of wickedness. Here he defends himself against these accusations and continues to stand up for righteousness. He states he will never admit to what he has being accused of and that until he dies, he will maintain his integrity. It sounds that he is not only defending himself but also reaffirming his Godly life - to others and to himself. It feels like he is encouraging himself to 'fight the good fight', despite the doubts of others.


APPLICATION
While reading these Scriptures, I was so moved by Job's stand. The entire chapter speaks to his determination even in the darkest of days. He's lost everything and nearly everyone he loves. His wife and his friends have mocked and accused him. And yet, he continues to stand firm for the Lord.

You know, I'd like to think and say that I would do the same thing if I were in Job's shoes. But, quite honestly, if all of these things had happened to me, I'm not sure how I would react. I often think about how I would conduct myself if I was persecuted for my faith and I imagine a strong stance. I think we all do. But we are weak in our humanness.

So, how to we combat the really BIG battles when and if they come? It has to start with mastering the small battles. It has to be on the foundation of a strong prayer life and relationship with Jesus. We certainly can't do it alone! As humans, we would fail. But, God can provide the supernatural everything that we need in the toughest of times.

I often think the main thing that separates believes from non-believers is that one fact. No matter what hardship we may encounter, we have a hope that is Jesus Christ.

PRAYER
Father, strengthen me daily so that I can stand firm when the storms come. I want to remain steadfast in my reliance upon you. Strengthen my faith and keep me in a daily pursuit of righteousness. Amen.