Week 3 - Day 3

Today, the author leads us in contemplation of a natural reaction to suffering - anger. In Job 15:11-13, Eliphaz accused Job of venting his anger against God. Do you think this was true? Why or why not?

When anger rears its head in response to suffering, how should we counter it? (Consider Jesus' example in Mark 3:5 and John 2:13-17.) How do we carry out the instruction of Ephesians 4:26, "In your anger do not sin"?

On page 38 of Holding On To Hope, we see a third reason God allows suffering in our lives. He uses it to mold you into a person who thinks and acts and looks like Christ. Through every difficulty, God is faithfully doing the transforming work He has promised (Romans 8:28-32). The worst things that happen to us often bring the best results in terms of our personal character and walk with the Lord. They produce in us what comfort and ease could never do. Would you allow suffering to be your teacher?

When you find yourself struggling with anger, bitterness, self-pity - or any number of difficult emotions that plague us - turn to God. Pour out your heart to Him and take refuge behind His nature and character. Job was frustrated and bewildered (and he poured that out before God!), but he remained steadfast and in faith declared, "Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him..." (Job 13:15a). Unlike the wicked, "even in death the righteous have a refuge." (Proverbs 14:32) Are you hiding in Him?