Today’s Scripture: Job 31:1-10
Job 31 contains a record of Job’s final words. It’s an interesting read, because he reveals the eight values by which he lived. Job was so confident of the Godly life he had lived up to this point that he could judge himself in the presence of his “comforters” by laying his heart open before them. The conclusion: His fiery trial was not a result of any sin he had committed.
The way many consider Proverbs 31 as a model for women, Job 31 can serve as a model for men—or for all of us, for that matter. Over the next three days, let’s consider each of the values Job mentioned and take an introspective look at their presence—or lack thereof—in our own lives.
Purity – “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl” (31:1).
Honesty – “If I have walked in falsehood . . . let God weigh me in honest scales . . .” (31:5-6).
Fidelity – “If my heart has been enticed by a woman or if I have lurked at my neighbor’s door. . . then let my wife grind another man’s grain and may other men sleep with her” (31:9-10).
The first three values Job mentions focus on morality, sexual purity and honesty. Although Job didn’t have sexual temptations coming through television, internet, or other communication vehicles we have today, it was still a challenge for him to remain pure. He honored his wife by remaining faithful, and he respected his fellowman by treating them honestly.
- What safeguards have you established to ensure moral purity in your own life? If you have no safeguards, what can you start to put into place today?
- How easy is it for you to twist the truth? How can honesty become more of a high value item in your life?
Thank you Mary