In Job 3, Job curses the day of his birth, expressing deep despair over his suffering. He questions why he was born only to experience such misery, longing for answers from God. Job’s lament reflects his anguish and search for meaning amidst his suffering.
What I have greatly feared
Job 3:25-26 (NIV) – “What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” Job’s words in this passage express the weight of his suffering. Despite his wealth and righteousness, Job’s heart was heavy with fear for his family and his own fate. Now, as disaster strikes, he experiences the very turmoil he feared. His once peaceful life is shattered, and in his pain, he confesses that his worst fears have become reality.
Job 1:5 (NIV) – “When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would make arrangements for them to be purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, ‘Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.’ This was Job’s regular custom.” Albeit, Job’s consistent fear of potential sin—especially concerning his children—led him to regularly make offerings to God. Though his actions were intended for protection, Job’s fear may have inadvertently contributed to his own suffering, as it left him vulnerable to the very troubles he feared.
Unchecked Fear
Fear, when unchecked, can draw our attention away from trust in God’s sovereignty. Job’s fear acted like a magnet for the very suffering he feared most. It’s a reminder that fear, just as faith, has its own power. Fear can cloud our minds, but faith can protect us from it. 1 Peter 3:6 (ESV) – “As Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.” Furthermore, Psalm 62:8 (ESV) reads: “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.”
2 Timothy 4:18 (ESV) – “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” These scriptures encourage us to trust God, even when fear surrounds us. Life is filled with uncertainties, but God promises His protection and refuge. He will rescue His people from evil and will bring them into His kingdom safely.
In Genesis 28:15 (CEV), Deuteronomy 31:6 (CEV), and Isaiah 41:10 (CEV), God assures His people that He is always with them, watching over them and providing the strength they need to endure. Even when it seems like God is distant, His promises remain.
However, trust does not mean that our fears won’t come to pass. 1 Peter 1:7 (CEV) tells us that our faith is tested through fire, just as gold is purified. The trials we face are refining us, preparing us for something greater. Our faith, proven through adversity, will result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ returns.
In your own suffering, remember that God is with you. Trust Him through the pain, and know that when Christ returns, all trials will be redeemed. Your faith will be found precious, and you will receive the reward of eternal glory. Trust God—He will deliver you, and His purposes will be fulfilled in you.