David writes about passing through the valley of death. In the world, there are times, people of God must cross hard, trying, troubling and terrifying times. David confidently asserts that during such times God is with us. (Psalms 23:4) Job went through such a dark period in his life. Satan accused God of bribing Job in order to gain his loyalty; God allowed Satan to test Job. He went through immense suffering of loss of his wealth, children and his own health. Spurgeon explains four aspects of life, Job longed for, that also we could miss during such a crisis. (Job 29:1-6) This reveals that the primary issue for Job was not material but spiritual.
1) Preservation: Job was nostalgic about his good times. He felt God was watching over him, during those good times when he spent with his children, who were alive. Now, he lost such preservation, or His presence was absent. This feeling could push a believer into despair. Lord never forsakes His children, yet there are times, when believers feel they are abandoned. (Matthew 28:20)
2) Consolation: God’s lamp shown on my head was Job’s statement. God’s whispering, assuring voice helped Job to go through life with confidence. “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21) God’s will is guidance as well as comfort for believers.
3) Illumination: When Job walked through darkness, he could see God’s light. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalms 119:105) Lord Jesus is Light of the world, and he enlightens all who look upon him. (John 1: 9)
4) Communion: Job experienced God as his friend in his tent. Like Abraham who was called as friend of God, Job also experienced fellowship of God. (James 2:23) Lord Jesus called His disciples as friends and not as slaves. (John 15:15)
How dynamic is my relationship with the Lord?