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NIV is used unless otherwise noted.



Open Mouth, Insert Foot

Surely I spoke too soon of things I did not understand.
Job 42:3


If you have never spoken before you thought, you are a rare individual indeed. I am sadly guilty of this habit. I am tempted to call it a “disease,” but I know it’s not. I fear that it’s a matter of pride. After all, what I have to say is so very important. (pride? habit?)

Unfortunately, this has given me many times to blush, to apologize, and even to enter into my “silent mode.” Noted preacher, Chuck Swindoll, says, “Only those words that have not crossed the lips can be taken back.” I heard this years ago, but it evidently went in one ear and right out the other.

Job was a prosperous man who loved God. Satan came to God claiming that the only reason Job loved God was because he was wealthy, in good health, and had a loving family. So, God allowed Satan to test Job’s faith.

Things got really rough for Job, but he remained faithful. I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed in my flesh I will see God (Job 19:25-26). His friends rallied around him, but they could not relieve his anguish.

So: Job provided a long discourse in Job 23-24; 26-31. His friends …stopped answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes (Job 32:1). Are we guilty of claiming that we are righteous? 

When God answers Job, He gives him multiple events that only God can do, and Job is not God. It’s embarrassing to say the least, but God has responded to some of my prideful words like He said to Job.  

My patient and loving Father, thank You again for your unwavering love. Thank You for leading me to words that honor You.


Lynda S.

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