If it doesn't kill you...

The focal verses for Step 5 of LifeWay’s Explore the Bible lesson “Respond with Faith” jump from Job’s response to Satan’s initial attack in Job 1:20-22 to Satan’s attack on Job’s health in Job 2:7, and finally to Job’s wife’s response in Job 2:9-10.

These are the ‘money’ verses since they record Job’s response to the tragedies in his life—he worshipped, praised and witnessed—and in summary, the writer of Job indicates Job did not sin or blame God throughout the whole ordeal. If we had no other verses from Job than these, we’d have enough to learn how to respond when our lives take a bad turn.

Yesterday, while trying to backup my wife’s PC, I accidentally put the hard drive out of commission. Yikes! I don’t want to tell you how I responded. Day before yesterday I over did it rehabbing a sore knee (had arthroscopy a couple of weeks ago). Given the self-caused pain, swelling and loss of sleep, I don’t want to tell you how I responded!

But my examples are trivial compared to the type of life changing events that really test one’s faith. Put up the statement, “It’s said that, ‘If it doesn't kill you, it makes you stronger.’” Ask members to discuss the statement. Ask how they think Job was made stronger. Do you believe God purposed you to praise Him in the midst of your trials? Check out this rock idea for “what tests your faith?”.

For some reason the Holy Spirit brought 1 Cor 10:13 to mind. Isn’t God good?!