Who is in charge? 

When Job suffered great loss, he demanded that God answer him. Finally, God spoke, reminding Job of his sovereign might, and eventually restoring to Job all that was lost. 

From an Africa Study Bible proverbs and stories note:

A Shi proverb from the Democratic Republic of the Congo says, Omushosi akaluka ezashenyaga aciri musole, meaning, “An elderly man heats himself with the wood he gathered when he was young.” This proverb suggests that we will receive the reward for our good deeds. When we are strong physically and mentally, it is easy to deceive ourselves that we are able to manage our own lives by our own efforts. Though the Bible teaches us to be diligent in work (Proverbs 6:6-8), it is also clear that we cannot control life’s outcome through our own efforts. When Job lost his possessions, family, and health, he had no earthly security left. He recognized he would only trust God for his future. “Have I put my trust in money or felt secure because of my gold?” (Job 31:24). 

God asked Job a long series of questions to remind Job further that Job was helpless compared to God (Job 38-41). God’s questioning forced Job to acknowledge that he could not understand God’s ways, much less interrogate God. God knew that Job did not really need his questions of “Why?” answered. What Job needed most in his pain was an awareness of the Creator’s power and presence. Like Job, we may never know why God allows us to suffer, but we can know and personally encounter the God who we can trust. Our lives and welfare are ultimately in the hands of an all-powerful, all-knowing God. 

Today: 

God pointed Job to creation to inspire him to worship. If possible, take a walk with your family or a friend, water a plant, or wonder at the stars. Ask God to reveal himself to you through his creation. Look at the weather, the animals, and the skies. These will remind you that God is in control of the entire universe from beginning to end, and this powerful God is with you. 

Congratulations! 

During this time of crisis, you turned to God's Word and God's people, opening your heart to be encouraged by your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ from across Africa. We hope that  each day gave you fresh insights as you began Trusting God in Times of Crisis.    

Interested in other free Africa Study Bible resources? Take a look here.  

We've been praying for you on this journey. Read what our supervising  editor, Dr. John Jusu, prayed for everyone who would read the Africa Study Bible here. Do keep in touch too. You can find out more about Oasis International here. God bless you!