What practical steps can we take to trust God's plan in adversity? Understanding the Question in Job 35:3 “Job 35:3 — ‘For you ask, “What does it profit me, and what benefit do I gain by not sinning?”’ Job voices the ache we feel when obedience seems unrewarded. The answer is found in learning to trust God’s plan, not our perceptions. Remembering Who God Is - Sovereign: “Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever pleases Him.” Psalm 115:3 - Good: “The LORD is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds.” Psalm 145:17 - Wise: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” Romans 11:33 Rehearsing these truths daily steadies the heart when circumstances shout the opposite. Submitting Our Perspective to His Wisdom - Admit limits (Isaiah 55:8-9). - Choose surrender (Proverbs 3:5-6). - Replace “Why me?” with “What are You showing me?” to rest under His loving authority. Anchoring in Scripture Daily - Read a steady plan (e.g., a Psalm and a Gospel chapter each morning). - Meditate on promises like Romans 8:28; write them on cards, speak them aloud. - Memorize key verses (Psalm 119:11) to steady emotions on the spot. Praying with Honesty and Humility - Pour out pain as Job did (Job 1:22). - Cast every care on Him (1 Peter 5:7). - Ask for wisdom in trials (James 1:5). Serving Others in the Trial - Encourage with a note, meal, or listening ear. - “Carry one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Serving shifts focus from self-pity to purposeful living. Practicing Gratitude - Keep a gratitude journal—three evidences of God’s faithfulness each day. - Thank Him aloud (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Gratitude trains the heart to notice grace in the dark. Waiting with Hope - “Wait patiently for the LORD” (Psalm 27:14). - Expect future vindication—Job sees restoration (Job 42:10-17). - Overflow with hope by the Spirit (Romans 15:13). Putting It All Together 1. Rehearse God’s character daily. 2. Surrender understanding when answers elude you. 3. Feed on Scripture more than on news or opinions. 4. Pray transparently and often. 5. Serve someone every day, however small. 6. Record specific thanks. 7. Wait, knowing no suffering is wasted (2 Corinthians 4:17). |
    |