Dealing with Tough Times (Feb-Mar)
Life is full of tough times. We cannot escape them. We cannot wish them away. So, we must learn to grow in them. In this study of the book of Job, we will learn how we can deal with the tough times of life.
Recommended Resources: When Life Gets Hard by James MacDonald; Where is God by John Townsend; Be Still, My Soul by Nancy Guthrie
February 28 – When Everything Goes Wrong (Job 1:1-2:10)
Key Verses: ”Satan answered the Lord, “Does Job fear God for nothing? Haven’t You placed a hedge around him, his household, and everything he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But stretch out Your hand and strike everything he owns, and he will surely curse You to Your face” (Job 1:9-11, HCSB).
Theme – We don’t always see the things at work when everything falls apart.
March 7 – With Friends Like These
Key Verses: ”Then Job answered: I have heard many things like these. You are all miserable comforters. Is there no end to your empty words? What provokes you that you continue testifying? If you were in my place I could also talk like you. I could string words together against you and shake my head at you. Instead, I would encourage you with my mouth, and the consolation from my lips would bring relief” (Job 16:1-5, HCSB).
Theme – How to (and how not to) be a friend to someone hurting.
March 14 – A Sense of Perspective
Key Verses: “How then can I answer Him or choose my arguments against Him? Even if I were in the right, I could not answer. I could only beg my Judge for mercy” (Job 9:14-15, HCSB).
Theme – Trials often refine our view of ourselves and God
March 21 – God Speaks
Key Verses: “Get ready to answer Me like a man; When I question you, you will inform Me. Would you really challenge My justice? Would you declare Me guilty to justify yourself” (Job 40:7-8, HCSB)?
Theme – God reveals Himself in the midst of our trials.
March 28 (Palm Sunday) – The Promise of Redemption and Resurrection (Job 19:25-27; 42:1-17)
Key Verses: “But I know my living Redeemer, and He will stand on the dust at last. Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet I will see God in my flesh. I will see Him myself; my eyes will look at Him, and not as a stranger. My heart longs within me” ( Job 19:25-27, HCSB).
Theme – God promises those who put their faith in Him redemption and resurrection.
