The geological features at Yellowstone National Park fascinate
me. But when I walk among the geysers, I’m aware of how close I
am to danger. I am walking atop one of the largest, most active
volcanoes in the world.
When I read the book of Job, I feel as if I’m walking through
Yellowstone on a day when the volcano erupts, exploding the
earth’s fragile crust and bringing disaster.
Like tourists at Yellowstone, Job was enjoying life. He was
unaware that only a hedge separated him from disaster (Job
1:9-10). When God removed that hedge and allowed Satan to test
Job, his life exploded (vv.13-19).
Many believers live in circumstances where it seems as if God,
for some reason, has removed His hedge of protection. Others,
also for reasons unknown, live in relative calm, seemingly
unaware of their fragile existence. Like Job’s friends, they
assume that nothing bad will happen unless they do something to
deserve it.
As we learn from Job, however, God sometimes allows bad things
to happen to good people. Although disaster can strike at any
moment, nothing has the power to destroy those who trust Christ
(2 Cor. 4:9). No disaster can separate us from God’s love. — Julie
Ackerman Link
Though darker, rougher, grows the way
And cares press harder day by day,
With patience in His love I’ll rest,
And whisper that He knoweth best. —Pentecost
God’s love still stands when all else has fallen.