"I would seek unto God ... who giveth rain upon the Earth"

We've just come through a very rainy few weeks. Many could think it a depressing month with the dark skies and thick cloud cover. Despondency could have overcome many who were normally of a sanguine nature. Yet, farmers and gardeners would agree the rainfall provided amazing nourishment to the seedlings for an exceptional growing season! My own perennials seem to be two weeks ahead of schedule; they are thriving.

The book of Job has given us five beautiful words: "I would seek unto God." This is the very best advice; but, only because Job lived through the very worst times. The storms literally encompassed him and tore everything away. In a very short time Job received reports of total loss and destruction. He learned that his animals had been stolen, his servants slain, his sheep consumed, home destroyed, his children lifeless from a great wind. Shocked and saddened by this devastation the Bible says, "Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly" (Job 1:22). What did Job do? He sought God. He sought God immediately and said, "Blessed be the name of the Lord." Can we find a better example of one who walked by faith and retained integrity amidst the very worst calamity?

Reflect for a few moments on the words of Job 5:8-11 and let these words be a source of encouragement when days may seem cloudy or dreary. "I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause: which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number: who giveth rain upon the earth, and sendeth waters upon the fields: to set up on high those that be low; that those which mourn may be exalted to safety."