4“I have become a laughingstock to my friends, though I called upon God and he answered—a mere laughingstock, though righteous and blameless!
Job has had some communication with God. He has not yet gotten the answers he wanted. He is still struggling with how the events of his life fit into the plan of God. He doesn’t know how it all makes sense. He still has many ‘why’ questions, but he has heard something from God. His friends continue to be no help to him. He is not happy with them. Look at the words of this chapter. He basically says that they are marauders, having no roots in reality. He says even the animals are smarter about these things than they are. Job still feels without human understanding, alone in his struggles. His friends have become uncaring accusers. Who needs more of those! He just wants someone to be with him in his struggles and not point their finger in judgment. He feels alone and misunderstood. Ever feel that way? I have. I think the answer Job has received so far is that there is no connection between the bad that has happened and his personal sin. He knew that, but there is a shift away from having to defend this. He points to out the changes in position of so many in society, the ups and downs of life, the changes that the LORD brings about. He seems OK with where he is in the moment. He doesn’t have answers, and he has some hope. This is a hard place and a wonderful place, to not have all the answers, and yet be OK with that. The questions are not consuming him. They have found their proper place, right next to faith and hope. Questions don’t have to necessarily separate us from the LORD, if we bring those questions into His presence. When we are not alone, the questions find their proper place and we can find some peace.
The Arnold Journey 