For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me. Job 19:25-27 KJV
What a tremendous Old Testament statement of faith from a man undergoing horrible suffering, both from Satan and his less than ideal friends. Notice what he affirms: (1) His redeemer lives, the one that ultimately would vindicate him. (2) Although he fully expected to die, he just as surely expected to live again. He expresses confidence in the resurrection of the body. (3) After his resurrection he expected to see God for himself, with his own eyes. With a lot less to go on than we have available in the New Testament, Job expressed a confident faith in Christ, redemption, the resurrection, and eternity. Having the Lord and the clear testimony of Scripture may we enjoy the same confidence.
Lord, suffering often has the opposite effect on me. I become weak in faith and question my hope for eternity. What a good example Job is. Help me to become strong in my faith that I might express the same confidence while facing times of difficulty in my life.
