Life of Job

1 Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. 2 Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and mind. 3 For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in faithfulness to you. (Psalm 26:1-3)

Bad things happen to good people all the time. Being created in the image of God means there is goodness in every person, and bad things, difficult circumstances, happen to everyone. The book of Job presents a folktale of suffering. Job is, at turns, patient, ambivalent, angry, and resolute. But he never stops talking to God. And he never stops listening for God - sometimes demanding a response.

When we are in the midst of difficulties or suffering it can feel like God has either deserted us or like there's a harsh light shining on us as God watches for our downfall. We must take care that it's not we who have turned our back on God, and realize that the harsh light may illuminate the path to wholeness, restoration, and renewal. Let us wait with hope as we sit among the ashes with Job and cry out to the One who always hears.

9 Do not sweep me away with sinners, nor my life with the bloodthirsty, 10 those in whose hands are evil devices, and whose right hands are full of bribes. 11 But as for me, I walk in my integrity; redeem me, and be gracious to me. (Psalm 26:9-11)