Better Than Chocolate
I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food. - Job 23:12 NASB
How hungry are you for God's truth in your life? What would you give up to spend time in God's presence, reading His words to you? Do you think Job meant what he said when he was in the depths of despair trying to make sense of his friends nonsensical accusations? I believe Job meant every word. Job had such a deep relationship with God that nothing could permanently shake him.
Yes, Job wished he were dead earlier in the story. But even the most grounded Christians have moments of hopelessness when faced with a pain so piercing. Remember, Job had lost everything - all of his family except for his wife, his possessions and his health. Not to mention it, but if I were him, I'd think about ditching those friends who would not shut up! Most importantly though, Job had not lost His God nor his faith in Him.
Look at what Job said regarding God's path for him:
But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (Job 23:10)
As He did with Job, God also has a refining purpose for all of us. The paths He has for us might not always be the comfortable paths we would have chosen, but we must rest assured they are the best for us.
For he performs what is appointed for me, And many such decrees are with Him. (Job 23:14 NASB)
Because God's ways are not our ways, we must rely on the promises of His word so that when storms make their way into our lives we can stand firm. In troubled times, we have to hold on to one thing in our lives that will never change - the Word of God. Our feelings about God may change with our circumstances, but those words in black and white stay consistent from day to day, year after year. Yes, I believe His word truly is better than my necessary food...even better than chocolate.
Priority Check:
1) What are you placing higher on your daily priority list than your time with God?
2) When was the last time you had to rely on God alone for strength?
Note: Originally published March 27, 2007
Janna Rust is a Professional Coach and Speaker dedicated to encouraging others towards lives God intends for them. For more information, visit her other blog at www.purposefulleadershipblog.com.