When life falls apart.

It may not seem like a natural progression, but the Old Testament book of Job is a great follow-up for anyone who has just read through the New Testament book of James. These two books are a great back-to-back read if your life has fallen apart, and you’re enduring a time of suffering.

Skeptical? Allow me to explain.

To start, consider the instruction of James in chapter one, which really sets the stage for the entire context of his letter. Look at this key statement.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)

Now, consider James’ instruction within the testimony of Job’s life. Initially, one may push back, because Job isn’t noted for being joyful during his trials. Nevertheless, there is definitely a rising above and staying faithful throughout severe trials!

As you read through the first part of Job chapter one, keep all this in mind.

• It is first established that Job is a righteous and God-fearing man.
• As the account continues, we see that Job is stripped of family.
• Then his financial security and possessions are taken all at once.

It might be very difficult to find someone we know who has ever experienced this kind of immediate sorrow. That being said, I don’t know you’re circumstances. Perhaps Job’s circumstances sound somewhat familiar.

How would I react?

I must admit that as I ponder my response, I can’t even imagine what I would do. I would love to think that I would remain faithful, but I fear that I would likely spiral out of control.

How does Job react to the pain and agony of losing all of this?

“At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.  The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.’ In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” (Job 1:20-22)

It is truly incredible to read this description of Job’s response. I try to picture it. I close my eyes and imagine this grown man laying on the ground with torn clothes weeping, with no family to comfort him. I try to establish how helpless I would feel, as a stranger standing next to him. It’s overwhelming to picture in my mind’s eye.

What about you? Can you picture it? How does it make you feel? Maybe you can relate to him; even if only in part?

Then I imagine, just as I am about to speak to him, or reach out to him, I hear him cry out,

“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.”

What would we think or say?

Most of us would likely think the man had gone insane. Perhaps he has a mental illness? But in fact, the sorrow has driven him to a state where he is completely undone as a human being. There’s no shame, just the reality of his situation.

Therefore, his words are from a very sane place. Moreover, only someone who is truly devoted to God would be able to speak these words during such turmoil. His devotion to God must have been immense! Which is kind of the point.

Expressing the sorrow that comes with a significant time of trial and suffering is a good thing. Falling down at our bedside, weeping, and mourning is part of the human experience that God allows in this life.

What struggle are you facing today?

It isn’t wrong or sinful to express the pain you’re having at this moment. Although it may not feel possible, by leaning into God when the suffering feels the heaviest, you can remain faithful. It begins with a cry out to Him, even audibly if needs be. He will help you endure the pain, and persevere through the suffering.

So, what sorrow has come to pass in your life? Are you feeling like your life is spinning out of control? Do you feel like falling to the ground and weeping? If so, that’s okay, fall and weep. In your weeping, lean into Him. You will find the strength to remain faithful and endure your suffering.

It will likely be difficult but consider Job and his trials. Read through James for strength. Then embrace this opportunity to act in righteousness throughout your distress. Cling to the blessing that is to come; the blessing that God pours out on his children when they seek him during sorrow.