In today’s reading, Elihu continues his discourse with Job, challenging us to reflect on the consistency of our devotion to God. Do we love God only in the sunny, tranquil seasons of life, or do we remain steadfast through life’s storms? This is not about the natural process of grieving or mourning losses—both of which are valid human responses—but about the posture of our hearts when hardship comes knocking.

Throughout Job’s journey, we see him lament deeply and mourn his immense losses. Yet, despite his raw honesty and pain, he refuses to curse God, even when his wife suggests otherwise. Instead, Job affirms God’s sovereignty over his life and circumstances. This raises an important question for us: What is our heart’s posture when we go through difficulties?

To help us reflect, here are three questions drawn from Job 35-37:

1. Do We Seek God Only in Times of Struggle? (Job 35)

In nursing, I’ve had the privilege of caring for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. These patients often rely on two types of medications: maintenance medications for daily management and rescue medications for emergencies. Over the years I have noted that consistent adherence to the maintenance medications often reduces the need for the rescue counterparts. Similarly, do we have a daily routine of seeking the Lord, or do we only run to Him in times of crisis?

Our relationship with God should not be like an emergency contact we call only in distress. Elihu reminds us to examine whether our pursuit of God is rooted in consistent devotion or born solely out of desperation during times of crisis.

2. Do We Attribute Blessings to Luck or God? (Job 36)

In Job 36, Elihu highlights God’s justice and provision, and in verses 26-33, he offers a reminder that God is sovereign over His creation. But when life is going well, do we stop to acknowledge God as the source of our blessings, or do we attribute them to luck, effort, or chance? Recognizing God’s hand in both our struggles and successes can be intrumental in finding encouragement in hard times.

Incidentally, a heart aligned with God’s will is one that constantly gives Him credit for the blessings we encounter in life. When we navigate our everyday existence with the knowledge that “every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17), it becomes easier to trust Him in times of adversity.

3. Do We Trust God’s Wisdom in Uncertainty? (Job 37)

The story of Job serves as a powerful reminder that even the godly and righteous are not exempt from hardship. Despite enduring immense suffering, Job remained steadfast in his trust in God’s sovereignty. The question for us is, can we do the same when life feels confusing, unfair, or painful?

In Job 37, Elihu reflects on God’s majesty and power over creation, highlighting His unmatched wisdom. This chapter reminds us of God’s absolute sovereignty over the natural world. When we consider the God who controls the elements, it becomes easier to trust Him, even when we cannot fully grasp His plans or intentions for us. And, when all is said and done, weathered Faith doesn’t require understanding every detail. What it does require is trusting in God’s character, even when the path ahead is unclear.

Loving God Beyond the Benefits

These three questions challenge us to reflect on the foundation of our faith: Do we love God for who He is, or do we only seek Him for the benefits He provides? Since true devotion is tested in the storms of life, let us strive to remain steadfast, trusting in His wisdom, sovereignty, and goodness no matter the circumstances.

Prayer

Lord, help us to love You for who You are—sovereign, wise, and good—in both sunshine and storms. Teach us to trust You in every season of life, Amen.

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