The Humbling of Mankind

As I was finishing up the Book of Job, for my morning devotional reading, I was once again struck with a sense of astonishment on how the book ends. Yes, Job's fortunes and family are restored (thus, a happy ending), but God goes to great lengths, from chapters 38 to 42, to pound in one point and one point alone--He is God and we are His subjects! He loves us and sympathizes with us, but He alone is sovereign over the universe and we must humbly submit to that plan. We are not to question or second guess the Creator--nor are we supposed to doubt His plan for the world. He controls the heavens, the earth, the winds, the seas, the beasts of the earth, even calamities and blessing--all fall under His sovereign control.

"Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding." Job 38:4

This simple statement summarizes over a hundred verses in the last part of the book. Like a Drill Sergeant, He rams this into you over and over and over again. Just when you think that He is done, He starts it again. And when you think that you just can't take anymore...He states it yet again. As a result of God's statements, Job repents of his sin and declares himself "vile." (Job 40:4)

The popular "feel-good Gospel" of our culture starts with, "You are special and God has a plan for your life!" The true Gospel of the Bible starts with, "I am vile...have mercy on me Lord!" He humbles both the king and the peasant and shows us all that we are sinners under His hand of wrath. This makes Grace so much more precious!! When we see ourselves for what we are, then we can truly experience the full weight of His Grace. As Job learned, not even righteous living can make us worthy. It is by His grace and His grace alone!