In this verse we see a very sobering side to rejoicing in the Lord. It is one thing to rejoice when circumstances are fair and the sun is shining, but here we have Job, in obedience, rejoicing in unsparing pain that He has not denied the sustaining Words of the Lord, even after the loss of all his children and livestock. God says of him in Job 1: 8b: “there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil.” In verse 1: 22: it says, “Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God.” Job 10: 12: tells us, “Thou hast granted me life and lovingkindness (favor); and Thy care (Providence) has preserved my spirit.” This was his consolation, and he could rejoice, because through it all, he had not turned his heart against the Lord; He had learned obedience in the Fear of the Lord.
In a very distinct contrast the Prophet Samuel speaks to King Saul in 1 Samuel 15: 22 – 23, and says, “Has the Lord as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination (an abomination to the Lord), and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry, because you have rejected the Word of the Lord, He has rejected you from being king.” We see with absolute clarity the utmost importance which the Lord places on obedience and adherence to what He says; even in the smallest of details, which is the fundamental requirement to right-standing with Him.
In Psalm 119: 11 + 105 + 130 + 133 + 162 + 165: we read, “Thy Word have I treasured (hid) in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee.” “Thy Word is a Lamp to my feet, and a Light to my path.” “The unfolding of Thy Words gives Light; it gives understanding to the simple.” “Establish my footsteps in Thy Word, and do not let any iniquity have dominion over me.” “I rejoice at Thy Word, as one who finds great spoil.” “Those who love Thy Law (Word) have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble.” We see from these Scriptures that simple obedience to the Lord’s Words brings complete peace and stability.
Dearest Holy Lord Jesus: thank You for the awesome Fear of the Lord, which comes from the reading of Your Holy Word today. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, and probe our heart, that we may be cleansed from all that is displeasing to You in any way. May You impart to us Your Calvary obedience to the Father, that our heart may remain steadfast, and true to You in all our ways. Glory to You alone!
