In Job chapter 19, Job offers a litany of complaints about being treated unfairly by his friends AND by Yahweh God. The first twenty-four verses recount the friends’ verbal mistreatment and God's assumed mistreatment and silence. But then, in verses 25-27, Job reiterated his unconditional trust in God alone. Read it again.
“But I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the end he will stand on the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God. I will see Him for myself. Yes, I will see Him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!”
After losing his family, his fortune, his influence, and his health . . . Even after having these "comforters" accuse him of sin . . . Even after days or weeks of God's silence, he confessed his absolute trust in the Lord God! Job called Him his Redeemer. In middle eastern culture, a Redeemer (often a family Redeemer) was one who redeems someone from debt, servitude, or slavery by purchasing their freedom. When Job makes this declaration in the worst of times of his life, he is declaring his personal relationship with the God of the universe.
Do YOU have that kind of faith? A faith that, during pain, loss, sickness, loneliness AND even the silence of God, will still say, “I know the Living Redeemer.” I know that while the circumstances might indicate otherwise, HE lives and loves and is in control. Plus, we have the knowledge that nothing harmful or evil can befall us without first passing through His hands and heart.
Whatever has befallen you, whatever your struggle, remind yourself with those verses (19:25-27) and memorize verse twenty-five. Do some research on the Old Testament practice of a “Family Redeemer.” Two Old Testament examples are Hosea and Boaz. Have a wonderful Easter! Take time to worship with others and celebrate His resurrection. Be certain that you know the one true Redeemer Who has opened the gate to eternal life.
