“Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens — what can you do? They are deeper than the depths of the grave — what can you know? Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea.” (Job 11:7-9, NIV)
It was Zophar, the youngest of Job’s three “friends,” who spoke these words, using them to accuse Job of being ignorant of God. Unfortunately, well-intentioned people often lack sensitivity and compassion. Although Job’s experience of sudden and profound loss had placed him in a vulnerable emotional state, Zophar could only focus on Job’s seemingly arrogant demand to argue his case before God.
Yet the greatness of God has never been in competition with the goodness of God. The immeasurable dimensions of God’s wisdom are paralleled by His love:
“And I pray that you and all God’s holy people will have the power to understand the greatness of Christ’s love — how wide and how long and how high and how deep that love is. Christ’s love is greater than anyone can ever know, but I pray that you will be able to know that love. Then you can be filled with the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18-19, NCV)
When a friend is going through immeasurable pain — grief that is “wider than the sea” — let us always couple the wisdom of God that we share with a demonstration of His great love.
Photo by Loonder.com
Having been in ministry over 25 years, Karen is a gifted speaker, worship leader, songwriter and dramatic performer. She is a licensed and ordained minister who has traveled extensively in North America and abroad, and loves to inspire and instruct others in the memorization and delivery of God’s Word.
© 2017 Revelation Media. All Rights Reserved. Website by DiggsDesign
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
LinkedIn