Lent #2 - Job and Proverbs

Over the course of the next 6 weeks I have committed to read and reflect on both the books of Job and Proverbs (with the Gospel of Matthew). As one digs deeper into the Scriptures there are so many things that stand out in these pages. In fact, it is not only that these messages stand out, but that they are also so practical for our lives today.

Take the opening lines of Job 1:
"There once was a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was blameless—a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil."

Imagine coming across a man of 'complete integrity' in a land of evil people. Job was a man who stood out from his peers, because he chose to avoid evil. This may seem like an easy thing to do, but we all know that temptation comes from all corners of the world.

Even when he was dealt the severe blow of losing his family, livestock and material possessions, Job still remained faithful to God. He is a remarkable human being.

Perhaps Solomon was writing of people like Job when he wrote these words in Proverbs 2:

 "For the Lord grants wisdom!
    From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
⁷ He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.
    He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
⁸ He guards the paths of the just
    and protects those who are faithful to him."

May the Lord enable us to walk with integrity today and to avoid temptation when it comes our way.

"Wisdom is knowing the right path to take. Integrity is taking it." - Unknown

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Job's prayer:

“I came naked from my mother’s womb,
    and I will be naked when I leave.
The Lord gave me what I had,
    and the Lord has taken it away.
Praise the name of the Lord!”