Proper Response

There were times when my kiddos didn’t answer questions that I asked properly. As a parent, I could catch any “tude” (attitude) that laced the answers. They didn’t realize at the time that they were making this way harder on themselves than they ought.  I remember being called upon to attend a hearing to a dispute between neighbors. I knew both parties and really didn’t like the position I was put in. One neighbor had asked for my real estate opinion and I gave it. I was then “sworn in” to give that opinion, which I still maintained, into record of their lawsuit. In giving answers, less is best. Answer the question and don’t head down any “rabbit trails” that support your answer. I think brevity is your friend when being questioned extensively.

I’m coming to the end of my journey through Job and the Lord asked him a couple of questions. His response was perfect. The questions stopped him in his tracks. I hope that I can answer any questions that the Lord had for me with such humility, respect and clarity. Check this out…

¹ Then the Lord said to Job,

² “Do you still want to argue with the Almighty?
    You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?”

³ Then Job replied to the Lord,

⁴ “I am nothing—how could I ever find the answers?
    I will cover my mouth with my hand.
⁵ I have said too much already.
    I have nothing more to say.” (Job 40:1-5 NLT)

“I am nothing” – complete humility. Job recognized his place and he called it out. Any answers he might have come from the Lord.

“I have said too much already” – Job recognized he has likely been disrespectful with his comments during his pain and suffering.

“I have nothing more to say” – Job is giving the Lord the last word. Out of respect for the Lord, Job stood down.

I was reminded of an old song by an Atlanta singer/songwriter Mylon LeFevere called “Without Him” that was first recorded by Elvis Presley in 1966. (I was 5!)

Without Him I could do nothing
Without Him I’d surely fail
Without Him I would be drifting
Like a ship without a sail

Without Him I would be dying
Without Him I’d be enslaved
Without Him life would be worthless
But with Jesus thank God I’m saved

Oh Jesus, oh Jesus
Do you know Him today
Please don’t turn Him away
Oh Jesus, my Jesus
Without Him how lost I would be
Without Him how lost I would be

I think that this is Job’s posture before the Lord. I think it should be my posture before the Lord. Job displayed humility, respect and self-control before the Lord. His actions reflected what He believed about The Lord. My daily actions reflect what I really believe about the Lord.

Pressing On!

Dwayne