"Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways, and those with clean hands will grow stronger." Job 17:9 NIV
In chapter 17 of the Book of Job, we see Job nearly broken and almost hopeless. Not only has he lost his family, his health and his wealth; his friends are mocking him, telling him that he is the cause of his misery.
Sometimes, when we need a friend, some may come to discourage you, instead of encouraging you. Instead of saying a prayer for you, they may come to prey on your weakness. But in our times of deepest despair, that's when we should hold on to our faith in the promises of God, our truest friend. "The man of too many friends will be broken in pieces and come to ruin, but there is a true loving friend who sticks closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24 AMP.
In all of Job's pain and doubt, a sliver of hope, strengthened by his faith, remains. "Yet shall the righteous hold on his way, And he that hath clean hands shall wax stronger and stronger." Job 17:9 ASV.
As we move into yet another new year, hold on to that friend that sticks closer than a brother. As you move forward, do so knowing that while things may sometimes look dim, and tomorrow may be cloudy, God has made a promise to you. "The Lord himself will go ahead of you. He will be with you. He will never leave you. He'll never desert you. So don't be afraid. Don't lose hope." Deut. 31:8 NIRV
While others are being encouraged to make resolutions, be encouraged to know the the Lord has already made a way for you, walk in it.
"God is my strong fortress. He clears the path I need to take" 2 Samuel 22:333 ERV. "You cleared a path for my feet so that I could walk without stumbling" 2 Samuel 22:37 ERV. "The path we walk is charted by faith, not by what we see with our eyes. 2 Corinthians 5:7 Voice.
As we hold on to His promises, despite the circumstances of life, we will grow in faith, and stature with God and man.
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