What steps can we take to maintain closeness with God during hardships? Job 29:4 – A Snapshot of Intimacy “when I was in my prime, when the friendly counsel of God was over my tent” (Job 29:4) Job recalls a season when God’s nearness felt tangible—His “friendly counsel” hovering over Job’s dwelling like a protective cloud. Hardship may threaten that sense of closeness, yet Scripture shows practical ways to keep the fellowship fresh. Refreshing the Memory of God’s Nearness • Recall past encounters just as Job did. Remembering fuels present hope (Psalm 77:11–12). • Journal answered prayers, providential rescues, and whispered assurances. Testimonies guard the heart from despair (Psalm 42:4–5). Keeping the “Tent” Prepared • Daily cleanse the heart through confession (1 John 1:9). Sin is relational static. • Cultivate holiness in thought, speech, and action so the Lord feels “at home” (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Guard your physical home—music, media, conversations—so His counsel is not drowned out (Psalm 101:2–3). Anchoring Under His Counsel: The Word • Read and meditate on Scripture that speaks directly to suffering (Romans 8:18, 28; 2 Corinthians 4:17). • Memorize promises; quote them aloud when emotions waver (Psalm 119:11). • Study with others; fellowship sharpens perception of God’s voice (Acts 2:42). Talking with God—Unfiltered Prayer • Pour out grief honestly (Psalm 62:8). Job’s raw prayers were not rebuked for their candor. • Intertwine lament with trust: “Yet I will praise You” (Habakkuk 3:17-19). • Practice ongoing conversation, not just crisis petitions (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Choosing Trust over Bitterness • Surrender outcomes to God’s wisdom (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Remind yourself that discipline is fatherly love, not punishment (Hebrews 12:5-11). • Reject accusing thoughts about God’s character—take them captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). Serving Others in the Midst of Pain • Look for small ways to comfort with the comfort you receive (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). • Acts of mercy shift focus from self to God’s mission (Philippians 2:4). Practicing Persevering Praise • Sing truth even when feelings lag behind (Psalm 42:8; Acts 16:25). • Keep a gratitude list; thanksgiving ushers His presence (Psalm 100:4). Resting in Christ’s Finished Work • Remember that the veil is torn; access is constant, not seasonal (Hebrews 4:16; 10:19-22). • Meditate on Romans 8:35-39—nothing hardships bring can separate you from His love. Encouragement in Community • Allow trusted believers to hold up your arms when weary (Exodus 17:12; Galatians 6:2). • Share burdens openly; isolation breeds doubt. Expectation of Future Renewal • God’s eyes “roam throughout the earth to show Himself strong” on behalf of the loyal (2 Chronicles 16:9). • Trials refine faith like gold, ensuring reward and deeper fellowship (1 Peter 1:6-7). Hold these steps close, and the friendly counsel that hovered over Job’s tent will hover over yours, no matter how fierce the storm. |
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