February 26

Would He contend with me in His great power? No, He would certainly take note of me. — Job 23:6 BSB

Job was certain that if he could just reach God, he would find a friend. Throughout his ordeal, Job had been learning more about God’s true nature, and he seemed to catch a glimpse of the divine Redeemer, who was his friend. Just a few chapters earlier, Job had declared: “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God. I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!” (Job 19:25-27).

We don’t know exactly how much Job understood about God’s character, but he was convinced that if he could just come before God, he would be met by a friend.

Now, we live in the full light of the gospel, and we know beyond doubt that God is our truest and best friend, that He is our Father, and that we never need to fear approaching Him. He is not against us. His almighty power is not used to oppose or crush us. He listens to our cries with love. All His omnipotence is on our side. No mother’s heart is filled with as much love for her child as God’s heart is for us. We know that His thoughts toward us are thoughts of peace and kindness.