Read:
Job has answered his friends. Now he turns directly to God. God is not threatened by our questions or our feelings. He hears us when we pray.
As we read Job’s prayer, it becomes clear that his deepest desire isn’t for his wealth to be restored or even for his body to be healed. More than anything, Job wants God himself.
Job prays, “Remove your hand from me” (Job 13:21, NLT). He understands that God is sovereign. He doesn’t know about the conversation between God and Satan, but he knows this suffering didn’t happen outside of God’s authority. It’s possible Job feels like God is keeping him at a distance—when what he wants most is closeness. So he asks, “Now summon me and I will answer” (Job 13:22, NLT). Job isn’t asking for relief. He’s asking for relationship.
When we suffer, whether because of our own choices, someone else’s, or circumstances beyond our control we’re faced with a similar decision. We can turn away from God, blame him, and try to carry the weight on our own. Or we can turn toward God, trusting that he is our strength and shield (Psalm 28:7, NLT) and our hiding place (Psalm 32:7-8, NLT).
Turning toward God doesn’t always remove the struggle. But Jesus promises something better: “Come to me… and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28-29).
Pray: God, I’m tired. This struggle is wearing me down. I trust that you’re good. Help me turn toward you and find rest in your presence. Amen.