Fear of the Lord is This

Scripture:
He said to mankind,
“The fear of the Lord is this: wisdom.
And to turn from evil is understanding.”
Job 28:28

Observation: Job provides a soliloquy on wisdom, discussing where to find it. It is not in mines, in the seas, or anywhere men can see. However, it is obvious everywhere - in the way the wind moves, how rain waters the land, and in all nature. Death cannot find wisdom, but God knows its location. In the end, wisdom is summarized in four words ... fear of the Lord.

Job has spent many chapters defending his righteousness. He has claimed that the calamities that have befallen him are unjust. However, here at the end, he returns to one truth, and that is that God is in control, and only he has understanding. Yes, Job wishes he could appeal to God - make his case that he is righteous and thus should be under more protection than evil people who appear to live lives of comfort - but the basis of that wish is that it is still to God one must appeal, but God is wise.

Application: In all things, God remains in control, and he is the source of hope and love. He has a path planned for me and my family, and as we turn to him that path will unfold. That is not to say he will show it to us or explain it. Rather, he will manage and control it.

I trust that today as I consider the future of my daughter. I trust God has her circumstances in his hands. The results may not be what she wishes, but they will be for God's plan. I look forward to how her next 12-18 months unfold, and pray it remains for the glory of God, and by his wisdom.

Prayer: Lord, I commend my daughter into your hands. I hope she receives joy, happiness, safety, and success. Moreover, I trust that whatever path you lay before her will be for your kingdom come, and hope she has both the wisdom and understanding to walk that path. Amen.