Today’s devotion reflects on Job’s life, reminding us that even if we lose everything, we shouldn’t abandon the Lord. Job worshiped God because he understood that he is nothing without Him. As the Psalmist declares in Psalm 119:57, “Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words.”
Bible Reading of the Day
AM – Job 1-3
PM – Acts 7:1-19
Title: Even in despair, the LORD is my portion.
Job 1:21-22 KJV
And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. ²² In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.
It’s easy to say “God is my portion” when the bank account is full, the health is good, and the family is peaceful. But what do you say when the “bands of the wicked have robbed” you, or when despair knocks on your door at midnight? This part of Psalm 119:57 suggests that the writer may have experienced material loss, but like Job, he can say, “…. the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” Job 1:21.
We usually find it easy to worship and give all honour and glory to God when everything goes well and we are happy. However, in unfavourable or upsetting situations, we often struggle and tend to blame others. Many also accuse the Lord of their difficulties, questioning His intentions toward them. Sadly, Christians often blame God for their own mistakes, a pattern that goes back to Adam in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:12). The first couple set an example by shifting blame instead of accepting responsibility. Today, many still refuse to admit their faults, driven by arrogance and pride.
We can learn a valuable lesson from Job. He faced much worse trials than anyone else. Job lost everything—fortune, family, friends, and fame—yet he never blamed God for his suffering. Instead, he worshipped and proclaimed, “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD” (Job 1:21). When life doesn’t go your way, or you make mistakes, be cautious about blaming God if you’re at fault. Don’t accuse God unjustly!
In Psalm 119:57, the Psalmist declared, “Thou art my portion, O Lord,” a claim nobody could take away. These are the words of a satisfied soul. The psalmist is satisfied with the portion received, and that portion is the Lord Himself. Nothing is better, and nothing will ever fully satisfy his heart, but God Himself. The Lord Himself is the psalmist’s satisfaction because God has come to him through His word. Therefore, he can say, “Thou art my portion… I will keep Thy words…” This also captures the essence of the Bible, as we see in the New Testament. Jesus teaches: “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” Falling in love with Jesus makes it natural to follow His teachings.
Brethren, despair does not nullify your portion in the Lord. The wicked may steal your finances, security, or reputation, but they cannot take your inheritance if the Lord is your portion. However, there is a caveat to note: obedience to God’s word is required not just on good days but especially during the dark nights. The WORLD declares, “Despair means give up,” but the WORD teaches us, “Despair is where obedience shines brightest.” Let us be like the psalmist—robbed but not broken, pressed but not halted, in despair but remaining obedient. For blessed are those who will obey Him, come what may.
Remember, we come into this world without possessions, and at death, nothing we own will accompany us. Therefore, regardless of life’s circumstances, keep in mind that God remains in control!
Amen! “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD” (Job 1:21). This is one of my comforting words from the Lord during our time of loss.
Like Job, may we learn to worship God not only in seasons of abundance but also in times of loss and despair. Circumstances may change, but God’s goodness and faithfulness never do. When the Lord is our portion, we have everything we truly need. “Blessed be the name of the LORD.”