integrity and honor under pressure

10-17-08

SCRIPTURE
Job 1:9-11 9"Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. 10 "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face."

Acts 7:59-60 "As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!" And with that, he died."

OBSERVATION
This morning we read about 2 men who both suffered for doing the right thing. Both Job and Stephen loved God and lived lives in service to Him, but ultimately they paid a huge price for their beliefs. We're taught that God is love and that He protects us, but often we have the wrong definition of love and protection - we imprint the world's definition of these traits on to God and expect that He operate in a way that we are familiar and comfortable.

God didn't love them any less because He allowed them to suffer. Quite the opposite, as we see in the conversation between God and Satan. Job was a sterling example of someone who loved and worshiped God for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer. He understood the relationship between man and an all-powerful God, Creator of the universe - he understood that we must simply submit to our Creator's will.

Stephen also understood the reason for his persecution and attack. His response, like Job's was admirable and inspiring. He knew the possible consequences of his bold words to the council and yet he didn't back down or compromise the message and in the chaos of the riot that broke out, his faced shined with the brightness of an angel and he prayed to God that these murderers be forgiven of their actions.

APPLICATION
What can I learn from these 2 extraordinary men? I need to ask the Lord to strengthen my character. When I'm tested and stressed, what comes out of me? Do I have integrity and honor under pressure? Would I worship and praise my Lord and God under mental, spiritual or physical suffering or pain? I must have an understanding and a faith that can withstand temporal ups and downs, while not losing my compassion for those around me. These are qualities that will help me be a better husband, dad, leader and a better servant.

PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
May I praise you in blue skies and in storms. In the desert and in the garden times of life. Please create in me a depth of character that will please You. Thank You for the many blessings. May I represent You well in my family, neighborhood and church.
In Jesus name,
Amen