Scripture: Job 30:16-20 NLT And now my life seeps away. Depression haunts my days. At night my bones are filled with pain, which gnaws at me relentlessly. With a strong hand, God grabs my shirt. He grips me by the collar of my coat. He has thrown me into the mud. I’m nothing more than dust and ashes. I cry to you, O God, but you don’t answer. I stand before you, but you don’t even look.
Devotional: Job struggled with depression. And for good reason. He literally lost everything. His wife, his children, his wealth, and his good health. His expressed anguish is gripping. Candid. Transparent. His frustration and anger with God are brutally honest.
It is emotionally difficult to read Job’s words. Sensing the depths of his despair, one is prone to want to flee from it. But it’s significant for you and me to consider. This man is suffering greatly. He feels forsaken by God. He’s angry at God. Really angry.
Have you ever felt that? Perhaps you’ve been fearful to admit it. But certainly, God has shown us through His Word that He is big enough to handle our frustrations, anger, and truth-telling in the midst of our own despair. He continued to be with Job despite his affliction and He will continue to be with you.
Reflect:
- In what ways can you relate to Job’s anger? Have you been able to express that to God?
