Dear Readers,

In the deepest depths of his suffering, Job posed existential questions that concern us all: “What is man, that you make so much of him, and that you set your heart on him, visit him every morning and test him every moment? How long will you not look away from me, nor leave me alone till I swallow my spit?” (Job 7:17–21) This question about human existence is of timeless significance, touching the roots of our identity.

“God, why do you take us so seriously? Why even bother with us? All we are is a puff of air; we’re like shadows in a campfire. Step down, inspect us from head to toe, oh yes, because of how much you care for us. So, why not look the other way? Why not forgive?” Job 7:17-21

Job, plagued by inexplicable suffering, doubted God’s interest in an individual. Faced with the immense greatness of God and the vastness of His creation, Job wondered why God would bother with an individual at all. This question, “Mah enosh?” (What is man?), expresses the fundamental need to understand our place in the universe.

Although some interpreters argue that Job might have been mocking later Psalms, the question of the essence of being human remains central. Regardless of Job’s specific situation, we are all called to ask these questions: Who are we? Why are we here? What is the meaning and purpose of our lives?

The answer to these questions may lie in God’s love for us humans. The Bible reveals in John 3:16 and 1 John 3:1 that God’s love is so profound that He sent His own Son so that we may be called His children. This love gives value and meaning to our lives. Ellen G. White aptly emphasizes this: “Through the infinite sacrifice of Christ and faith in His name, the sons of Adam become the sons of God.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 563)

Therefore, the essence of being human lies in the love of God, who accepts us as His beloved children. This truth not only gives meaning to our lives but also provides hope and comfort, even in the darkest hours.

Merciful God,

In our contemplations on the essence of being human, we come before you, the Creator and Sustainer of our lives. Job’s existential question about the significance of humanity resonates in our hearts, and we seek answers that are profound and meaningful.

In our search for identity and purpose, we recognize the love you bestow upon us. Your love, manifested in the sacrifice of your Son, gives value and meaning to our existence. May this realization bring us comfort and grant us hope in the challenges of life.

In accepting that as your beloved children, we have a unique place in the universe, we want to express our gratitude before you. Let us find the essence of our humanity in this truth and be guided by your love as we solidify our identity in you.

In humility and gratitude, we pray. Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/curse-the-day-the-essence-of-being-human-a-reflection-on-jobs-questions-what-is-man/

The preceding texts illuminate various facets of dealing with people in positions of power, be it in religious, political, or social contexts. The central message lies in the recognition that God is capable of using people in influential positions and that it is our duty to approach them with love, prayer, and service.

The engagement with rich and powerful individuals, whether in the Bible or in today’s context, demonstrates that these people are not just subjects of criticism but also recipients of God’s work. Jesus himself sought not only the proximity of the weak but also the powerful. Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimathea, and other rich men are presented in the Bible as individuals who made a difference in their positions, whether through their faith, generosity, or willingness to serve.

The challenge of including people in positions of power in our prayer lists and even informing them that we are praying for them is an act of love and recognition of their human needs. Regardless of religious beliefs or worldly positions, all people share the same finitude and basic needs for love, acceptance, and redemption.

The story of Joseph of Arimathea underscores that God often uses people “out of nowhere” to fulfill His plans. Our mission is not only to recognize the needs of the powerful but also to find ways to serve them, whether through prayer, authentic service, or positive connections.

The texts teach us that the mission to the powerful is not just an opportunity to serve them but also a chance to leverage their power and influence to advance God’s kingdom. It is an invitation to see the powerful not as obstacles but as potential partners in God’s mission.

Overall, the texts emphasize the need for love, humility, and prayer in dealing with people in positions of power. It is a reminder that God’s work in the world is not based on social or political categories but on love for each individual, regardless of their position or status.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-mission-to-the-powerful-9-6-summary/

Dear Readers,

In our imagination, it may be challenging to conceive of living for several centuries. Methuselah, whose life is described in the book of Genesis, lived for 969 years – a timespan we can hardly fathom. Yet even he could not escape fate: death, the inevitable end of every life.

Let’s envision a conversation between Methuselah and a friend: “We live – for how long? 800, 900 years, and then we become history. What are 800 or 900 years compared to eternity?” (Genesis 5) This lament about the apparent brevity of life is timeless.

Job, a man confronted with immeasurable suffering, expressed his longing for rest in death in Job 7:1–11. He lamented the heaviness of life, full of sorrow and pain, and yet, he perceived it as short and fleeting. A paradox we often encounter – even in the midst of tragedies.

“The life of mortals is like forced labor, their days like those of a hired laborer. Like a slave longing for the evening shadows, or a hired laborer waiting to be paid, so I have been allotted months of futility, and nights of misery have been assigned to me. When I lie down I think, ‘How long before I get up?’ The night drags on, and I toss and turn until dawn. My body is clothed with worms and scabs, my skin is broken and festering. My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and they come to an end without hope. Remember, O God, that my life is but a breath; my eyes will never see happiness again. The eye that now sees me will see me no longer; you will look for me, but I will be no more. As a cloud vanishes and is gone, so one who goes down to the grave does not return. He will never come to his house again; his place will know him no more. Therefore, I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.” (Job 7:1-11)

In a poignant article, an Adventist shares her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Ironically, she laments that the life-extending Adventist lifestyle makes little sense when life is marked by suffering. In such moments, reason often disappears, and we are left alone with our pain and fear of hopelessness.

Even Job, who knew the promise of resurrection (Job 19:25), couldn’t overlook the transience of life in the darkness of suffering: “Remember that my life is but a breath, and my eyes will never again see good.” (Job 7:7) The proximity of death intensified his lament about the brevity of life.

How can we find solace amid these laments about life’s transience? Our perspective on the fall, death, and the promise of resurrection can help us contextualize the limitations of this earthly existence. By holding onto the hope of eternal life in Christ, we gain comfort and meaning that extends beyond the apparent shortness of this life.

Merciful God,

In our collective reflection on the transience of life, we come before you, who holds times in your hands. We think of Job’s lament and the timeless question of the meaning and duration of our earthly existence.

In moments of sorrow and suffering, when life seems short and fleeting, we seek your comfort. Let us view the perspective of the fall, death, and the promise of resurrection in the light of your love.

Help us embrace the transience of life with hope and serenity. May the certainty of eternal life in Christ fill our hearts and reveal the meaning behind the limitations of this earthly existence.

In our search for comfort and meaning in the weaving of life, we cling to the hope of eternal life. In gratitude for your love and faithfulness, we pray. Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/curse-the-day-the-weaving-of-life-a-glimpse-at-transience-the-weavers-shuttle/

Jesus’s relationship with the powerful was complex and instructive. The account of Joseph of Arimathea in Matthew 27:57–60 gives us insight into how the Lord used a rich man who was evidently influenced by Jesus.

Joseph of Arimathea appears unexpectedly in the narrative, almost out of nowhere, and plays a crucial role in fulfilling messianic prophecies. This illustrates that God can and will use the rich and powerful in His divine order. It is a call to continue the mission even among the powerful, as God has plans that go beyond social strata.

The account shows us that God employs the powerful for His purposes, and this is not limited to well-known personalities. Joseph of Arimathea, a rich and influential man, became a tool of God to bury the body of Jesus. This serves as a reminder that it’s not just about winning over the powerful; God can also use people from higher social strata to fulfill His plans.

Approaching powerful people in mission is an important consideration. Jesus himself showed that it is often more effective not to approach them directly but to let them come to Him. The powerful witnessed Jesus’s message, healings, and divine power. Their conviction happened behind the scenes as they observed His authentic mission.

Collaboration with the powerful can be achieved through genuine service. Powerful individuals often seek partnerships that have a positive impact on others’ lives. This provides an opportunity for them to become part of something good that changes lives. Service must be authentic and needs-oriented, addressing the needs of the powerful without violating their privacy.

The second phase, as implied in the text, involves starting genuine service that allows the rich and powerful to participate in God’s service. This requires investing in their lives to build trust and create a platform for service.

Overall, this story teaches us that mission to the powerful is a complex but important aspect. Building a relationship with them requires wisdom, authenticity, and, above all, recognizing that they also need God’s love and redemption.

Challenge: Add someone to your daily prayer list who is in a position of power, is not a believer, and is someone you could come in contact with from time to time.
The challenge of including someone in my daily prayer list who holds a position of power and is not a believer is a meaningful suggestion. In our busy world, we tend to pray for people close to us or those who share similar beliefs. However, praying for people in positions of power who may be distant from our own faith is an expression of love and a deep desire for positive influence.

Challenge Up: Address a letter or email to someone in a position of power—even if it is someone you may never have met—and tell that person that you are praying for him or her.
The plus of the challenge, writing a letter or email to a person in a position of power and informing them that I am praying for them, is a courageous action. It requires looking beyond potential barriers of differences in beliefs and positions and seeking a connection on a spiritual level. Here is a hypothetical example of such a letter:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Subject: Your Service and Our Common Well-being

Dear [Person’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your Position or Background]. I am writing to you because, during my daily prayer time, I reflect on people in influential positions, and I want you to know that you are included in my prayers.

I am aware that our beliefs and positions may not fully align, but I firmly believe that prayer can be a powerful and positive force. Regardless of our differences, I am convinced that all of us working in responsible positions share the desire to do good and bring about positive change.

I pray for wisdom, guidance, and personal fulfillment for you in your position. May clarity be given to you in your decisions, and may your service have a positive impact on people and society. If there is ever an opportunity where I can be of service to you in any way, please let me know.

I appreciate your service and the responsibility you carry, and I sincerely hope that you find fulfillment in your work. May this message be an encouragement to you.

Best regards, [Your Name]

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This type of letter or email is a bridge of respect and positive intent. It opens the door for dialogue and shows that prayer is not just a private matter but can also be a connecting force that transcends differences.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-mission-to-the-powerful-9-5-mission-to-the-powerful/

Dear Readers,

Job, amidst his profound suffering, finds powerful words to describe his anguish: “Oh, that my grief were fully weighed, and my calamity laid with it on the scales! For then it would be heavier than the sand of the sea; therefore, my words have been rash.” (Job 6:2–3)

This vivid depiction provides us with insight into the intensity of Job’s pain. Imagine having all the sand of the sea on one side of the scale and Job’s sorrow and suffering on the other—and yet, the latter weighs heavier than the countless grains of sand.

It is essential to recognize that Job’s pain is an individual experience. Often, we hear of widespread tragedies with many victims, whether caused by human actions or natural disasters. The numbers of the dead and injured can be overwhelming. However, just as Job bore his pain alone, each person experiences their suffering in a personal way. The concept of a “collective suffering of all humanity” does not align with reality. Each person undergoes their own pain, their own tragedy.

Even well-intentioned words like “I can empathize with your pain” have limitations. People can only feel their own pain, arising in response to the suffering of others. We cannot truly share or fully understand individual suffering.

As Christians, we are called, according to James 1:27 and Matthew 25:34–40, to alleviate the suffering of others. Yet, despite the immense suffering in the world, we can be thankful that no one suffers more than they can bear, with one exception.

Let us reflect on the limitations of individual suffering. How does this perspective change your view of the challenging topic of human suffering? In acknowledging the uniqueness of each pain, may empathy for the individual grow.

Merciful God,

In this shared reflection on Job’s deep pain, we come before you, who knows the individual suffering of every person. Job compared his sorrow to the weight of sand by the sea, and we recognize the uniqueness and intensity of his personal pain.

We ask for insight and understanding into the individuality of suffering. In a world often shaken by widespread tragedies, let us not overlook the personal stories and unique pain of each individual.

Help us approach the limited understanding of our own pains and the impossibility of fully sharing the pain of others with more mindfulness. May empathy for the individual grow as we become aware of the uniqueness of each suffering.

We thank you for providing us comfort and encouragement, even when we cannot fully grasp the depth of suffering. May our reflection on Job’s individual struggle in the sea of pain strengthen our compassion and lead us to be more attentive to the needs of our fellow humans.

In love and unity, we pray, in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/curse-the-day-the-individual-in-the-sea-of-pain-jobs-lonely-struggle-other-peoples-pain/