Soren writes that we need to be meek and humble before God, to receive the Word implanted, which saves our souls. We thus conclude Upbuilding Discourse #7, “Every Good Gift.”

Soren, citing Jesus, reminds us in our giving of good gifts that we are yet and still evil (Matthew 7:11 & Luke 11:13). This often tarnishes even our best intentions and the effects of the good gifts. Only God gives 100% pure good gifts, His Word and Wisdom, to resist temptation and evil, and implant the Truth in our souls and lives. We cannot be both the problem and the cure by ourselves alone. Without God.

Soren writes, “What happened at the beginning of days is repeated in every generation: the consequences of the fruit of the knowledge could not be halted,” Sin is like a serpent. Smooth talk and then suffocation.

Soren writes, “And yet there is no hiding place in the whole world where trouble will not find you…so then, be earnest with yourself; fix your eyes upon Job.”

Job faced the loss of everything clearly. He didn’t romanticize the past but neither did he deny that God had been good to him. Soren develops these ideas in depth. This podcast is dedicated to the memory of Lucy Kirkman and her essay, “What If Tomorrow.”

Soren emphasizes that Job is thankful that the Lord gave. Job, in this way, reminds us that God gives us everything we have. And that ultimately, everything in this world will be taken away. Only that which is done for eternity will last.

Job teaches us not only by what he said but also by what he did. He worshiped God in his trials and tribulations. Giving us his life as an example. “The Lord gave, and the Lord took away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

We finish up Upbuilding Discourse 5 “Strengthening the Inner Being” and start 6, “The Lord Gave and the Lord Took Away. Blessed Be the Name of the Lord.” Soren’s writings about Job’s sufferings provide sustenance in hard times. We can lose everything but still have God.

The inner being, Soren writes, “Looks not at the gifts but the Giver.” God gives us Himself. So whether we have adversity or prosperity, or some combination, looking to the Giver (God) allows us to experience increased calmness and peace, even as our concerns increase.

A conversation with Jeremiah Miller (actor and writer of the play LEAP, the life and writings of Soren Kierkegaard). We also delve into Upbuilding Discourses 5 & 1.