The Lord Gives and He Takes Away

Job 1:20-22

INTRODUCTION

Seemingly, Job possessed many of man's most treasured possessions: health, wealth, and a strong family unit. Suddenly, he lost them all. Job lost his health, his possessions, and his children. He also lost the esteem and approbation of his wife and friends. These events very easily could have devastated and embittered him. Yet, rather than expressions of doom and gloom, Job's words offer a profound glimpse into the depths of his contentment. In the midst of his heartache, Job exhibited an extremely important truth. A Christian's material and physical blessings, all of which are completely within the Lord's control, should never influence one's relationship with the Lord or others. Job also pointed out that man will depart this world in the same condition in which he entered: without one shred of material wealth. Ultimately, a Christian's possessions or the lack thereof reflect God's provisions; therefore, a lack of contentment reflects an unwillingness to trust in the Lord.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): What is your favorite toy? If you were asked to give that particular toy away, how would you react? How would the Lord want you to behave? Why is it so very important for us to do what God wants us to do?
• (For everyone): If God is responsible for all that we have or do not have, what does complaining about our current possessions or conditions reflect about us?
• In the midst of the many things he lost, Job also lost his children. Through it all he was still able to reflect contentment. Can you imagine how difficult things would be if the Lord allowed something like this in your life? Why do you think Job was able to lose so much and still serve the Lord? Could you have continued to serve Him?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Ask the Lord to teach you how to be satisfied with what you have.
• Ask God to meet your needs according to His timing and will.