[Job Chapter 42] Job doesn’t get an explanation for his suffering. But what he receives - in the end - is God’s awesome presence in his word.

Ultimately, this is what Job was looking for all this while.

As a result, God restores to Job everything he has lost. In fact, every single blessing is doubled. God is no-one’s debtor.

But not before Job prays for his friends’ forgiveness.

Job is God’s servant.

As such, his life is marked by unjust suffering.

As such, his ministry is marked by forgiveness.

“And the Lord accepted Job's prayer.” Job 42:9

This thorn in the flesh is so painful, so overwhelming that Paul prays - three times - for God to remove it from him.

God doesn't. Why?

To humble him, yes. To keep him from boasting, yes.

But ultimately, so that Paul can boast - not in his strength - but in his weakness and in the sufficiency of God’s grace.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

For those of us who are quick to condemn and criticise others, well, Paul was accused of being harsh with his words, that’s true, but he was even more intentional in embodying Christ’s meekness, Christ’s gentleness, especially towards those who needed to turn back to God. Because Christ took our harshness and judgement on the cross, He shows us so much grace and patience in our stubbornness and unrepentance. But the point is, we should show that same gentleness towards one another. At least, Paul does here in 2 Corinthians 10.

And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.

We put no obstacle in anyone's way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry.

Inspired by Bean.

https://says.com/my/entertainment/the-funny-meaning-of-mr-bean-choir-intro

Overview of Simon Chan's book "Grassroots Asian Theology"

He put a new song in my mouth,

And he said to me, “Son of man, eat whatever you find here. Eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.”

Need to go to the loo! Good motivation to keep this short haha!