“It’s So Unfair!”
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Job 23, 24 and Psalm 122 (NIV)
(Lucas Chow, Steward, LCEC)
READ:
For today’s reflection, I focused on Job 23 and 24.
In particular:
Job 23:2 “Even today my complaint is bitter; his hand is heavy in spite of my groaning.”
Job 24:1 “Why does the Almighty not set times for judgement? Why must those who know him look in vain for such days?”
OBSERVE:
“It’s so unfair!” I heard a child scream in a fast-food restaurant. I am not sure what was the situation which made him think he was unfairly treated. But thinking through my own life, I can recall numerous times I think I was unfairly treated or there wasn’t any justice.
I used to think that I worked very hard and therefore deserved to be rewarded and recognized. But when the results turned out otherwise or someone else was given all the credits, I was embittered. This bitterness boiled underneath the surface and slowly I became resentful and vindictive. Harbouring such bitterness may seem “justified” at the time but it certainly doesn’t help me in my Christian living and to be more like Christ.
APPLY:
Before complaining “it’s so unfair”, I must realize:
- God is sovereign, “He does whatever he pleases” (Job23:13). All things belong to God. All I can do or accomplish comes from Him and without Him I can do nothing. Remember that I am only a steward, therefore instead of jealousy and bitterness, I should give thanks to God.
- God is just. Job 24:18-24 reminds me that God will punish those who are guilty of sin. Ultimately justice comes from the Lord.
- God Forgives – “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” (Matthew 6:14). Jesus taught us the importance of forgiveness. To get rid of the bitterness in my heart, I must learn how to forgive and seek forgiveness from the people I have wronged.
DO:
Always:
- be mindful that God is sovereign.
- trust Him who loves me more than I ever know.
- forgive as He forgives me.
Give thanks to God in every circumstance.
Don’t harbour hatred and bitterness in my heart lest sin takes root.
PRAY:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for all your blessings. Cleanse my heart of any jealousy and hate and fill it with love for others. In your name, Amen.
