Knowing and Yet Ignoring

Scripture:
Can you fathom the depths of God
or discover the limits of the Almighty?
They are higher than the heavens—what can you do?
They are deeper than Sheol—what can you know?
Their measure is longer than the earth
and wider than the sea.
Job 11:7-9

Observation: As the debate between and amongst Job and his friend continues, they stumble upon the truth from time to time. Here, Zophar begins his response to Job in a very straightforward manner, effectively stating that Job needs to stop trying to defend himself because God's knowledge, wisdom, and ways are beyond our rational and understanding.

This is, of course, completely accurate. God's understanding of creation, his wisdom of good and evil, his planning of all purpose, his master of the universe, is beyond human comprehension. Therefore, any attempt by Job - or any man - to justify themselves against that wisdom and define their life in the context of the overall master plan of God, is futile. That is what Job is attempting to do, and Zophar corrects him.

Of course ... Zophar will immediately say ... now THIS is what you must do. Zophar states that it is beyond human understanding to explain God, then tries to explain God in the context of the actions Job must take to repent and return to a right relationship.

Application: I know enough about Jesus to know what I should do every day, and like so many others I fail to do it. I do not pray enough. I get angry quickly. I behave poorly toward others. I sin. And I do these things in full knowledge that I should pray continually, be patient and kind and loving, and be humble in service. While I may not understand God's wisdom and purposes, I know God's great truth, and I ignore it often.

I will continue to attempt to adjust this every day. I seek God's wisdom and love in my life, and will start by aligning my thoughts and prayers to him. I know I will fail often, but I need to start succeeding more.

Prayer: Lord, I have prayed this prayer so many times. Please aid me in walking humbly with you today. I seek your word in my ear, and your hand upon my hand. May I turn to you with my thoughts and listen only to your voice. Amen.