I’ve been reading my way through the Bible and am now in the book of Job. I’ve come to chapter 19 where Job lists what he believes his friends have done to him and what he believes God has done to him. From being a wealthy, blameless, upright man, Job has become someone to be shunned.

Job’s friends torment and crush him with their words and accusations. 

Job says that God has blocked his way, taken his honor from him, torn him down, even uprooted his hope. 

Job’s family, acquaintances, relatives, closest friends, guests, employees, and wife have forsaken him. 

In the midst of his lamentable physical and emotional condition, what does he do? Job remembers his Redeemer!

“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.” Job 19:25

How is your health? Your home life? Your work? Your relationships? Are they the way you imagined they would be in this season of life? 

Maybe the ministry team you planned to lead chose a different team leader. 

Maybe those you came to serve with and learn from no longer include you in meetings. 

Maybe your colleagues laugh at how you try to speak the national language. 

Maybe your siblings don’t understand why you want to serve as a global worker on the other side of the world. 

Maybe your friends no longer invite you out for coffee. 

If you’re discouraged, may you, this day, remember what Job remembered: I know that my Redeemer lives! Even if friends and family and colleagues forsake you, Jesus will never leave you! He loves you so much that He died in your place. He loves you so much that He cares about the details of your day-to-day life now and your eternal life forever. May you receive and rest in your Redeemer’s love this day.