Do you think that you can reprove words, when the speech of a despairing man is wind? Job 6:26
This morning, I pause my study of 1 Corinthians to use DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotion, which today looks at how we often speak of despair and how we should learn to discern whether such words are rooted more deeply in a "black" or evil heart, or whether they are "for the wind" due to a temporary pain or setback. If we can discern such talk as due to temporary pain or setback, John Piper encourages us to follow Job's guidance that we "not spend our time and energy reproving such words. They will be blown away of themselves on the wind. One need not clip the leaves in autumn. It is a wasted effort. They will soon blow off of themselves." Instead we are encouraged to "wait in silence and not reprove. Restoring the soul, not reproving the sore, is the aim of our love." If we are seeking God in these moments you will find him. Follow Jeremiah's words to the exiled Jews where he says in Jeremiah 29:13:
"[y]ou will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion - I know that You will never leave or forsake me. I will always find You when I seek You because You never leave me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such love. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
