Read: Job 5–6
In Job chapters 5 and 6, we see Job continue to struggle and lament in his pain. Thankfully, he is not alone; he has friends around him to listen to him and sit with him in his suffering. I’ve said it before, but who you surround yourself with truly matters.
I listened to a sermon yesterday from Rock City Church, and I want to reflect on some points from Pastor Chad. He referenced the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as an example of three friends who kept their faith in the Lord and stayed strong together. Not one of them bowed down or gave in. They knew what was right, and they stood firm even when threatened by the king. Their faith was powerful because they trusted God completely, saying in essence:
“Our God is able to save us — but even if He does not, He is still good.” – Daniel 3:17–18
Here is the sermon if you’d like to listen: My Relationships | Chad Hampton | Rock City Church
This made me think about Job. If the devil can isolate us, he can influence us. Imagine if Job had been completely alone in his suffering; how much harder that would have been.
Every time you choose your friends, you are also choosing your future. Ultimately, what matters most is our future in the Lord. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego may have caved if they had been standing alone, but together they stood firm; and together they walked out of the fire. This reminds us that God doesn’t always take us around difficult things in life; often, He takes us through them. Just like Job had to go through the difficulties and suffering.
This is why discernment is so important. When we struggle to have discernment ourselves, it is crucial that we have trusted, Godly friends whose discernment we can rely on. Discernment helps us see direction clearly.
As Scripture reminds us:
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” — Proverbs 13:20
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.” — Psalm 1:1
Our obedience to God does not negotiate outcomes; it simply trusts Him with them.
As mothers, it is especially important that we follow God not just for ourselves, but for our children as well. The people and environments we allow into our lives shape our families. That is why it matters who we surround ourselves with and what influences we invite in.
Having your children in church, sending them to church camp, involving them in Christian activities, Bible studies, or faith-based community is great for them. It is also important to model faith for them through your example. Children learn so much by watching how we live.
It is okay to look different from the world. It is okay to homeschool, choose a private Christian school, or be part of a faith-based co-op if that feels right for your family. It is okay to step away from friendships, even family relationships, that pull you or your children away from the Lord.
Your peace, your children’s protection, and your obedience to God matter. Pleasing Him is what matters most.
Discussion Question
- Why do you think God allows us to go through suffering instead of around it?
- How has this been true in your own life?
A Note from the Author
Hello everyone,
I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about the Bible verse studies, devotionals, and prayers that I put together. While I strive to offer meaningful insights and reflections, it’s important to clarify that I am not a trained or licensed biblical professional. My goal is not to provide expert theological advice but to share my personal knowledge, beliefs, and experiences as I read and reflect on the Holy Bible.
The insights I offer come from my own understanding and spiritual journey. I approach these reflections with the intention of sharing what personally resonates with me, what I’ve learned through my own study of Scripture, and what the Holy Spirit is sharing through me. I hope these thoughts are helpful and encouraging, but they are based on my personal perspective rather than formal theological training.
This specific Bible study is based off the book A Beautiful Year in the Bible The 52-Week Bible Study for Women by a series of wonderful authors Copyrighted by Alabaster Creative Inc. I do not own the rights to this book and am not claiming to. I am using the book to create my own version of the Bible in 365 days and continue to direct God’s word towards women, more specifically mothers.
Thank you for your understanding and for joining me in this journey of faith and reflection.
Blessings,
Maria Wilcoxon
*The header image is not mine and was taken from Pinterest
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