Finding Joy When Gratitude Feels Hard: Part 2

Job is another powerful example of faith when gratitude feels difficult. The subject of this post is a continuation of the last one - finding joy may feel like a stretch when talking about Job based on the turmoil he experienced. But the type of joy I'm referring to is in the confidence of God's promises. (Isaiah 51:11 (NLT) refers to this as an example)

In a short period of time, Job lost his wealth, his children, his health, and the life he once knew. His suffering was deep and devastating. He did not understand why it was happening, and he was honest in his grief. In Job 1:22 (NLT), it says, "In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God."

Job’s story reminds us that faith does not require us to hide our sorrow. Job cried out. He asked questions. He mourned. He wrestled with the pain of his circumstances.

But even in his suffering, Job acknowledged that God was still worthy. He did not have all the answers, but he continued to bring his pain before the Lord. His faith was not perfect or polished, but it endured. Job 6:10 (NLT) says, "At least I can take comfort in this: Despite the pain, I have no denied the words of the Holy One." Job 42:6 (NLT) says, [when speaking to God] "I take back everything I said and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance."

There is comfort in that for us.

Sometimes we think strong faith means never struggling. But Job shows us that strong faith can look like continuing to turn toward God while your heart is breaking. It can look like worship through tears. It can look like refusing to let suffering have the final word.

Job’s story also reminds us that our view is limited, but God’s wisdom is not. We may not always understand what God allows, but we can trust that He is sovereign, just, and near to the brokenhearted. This all should remind us to have gratitude in the Lord.