Job 23:10 But he knows the way that I take;
when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

The first line of this verse is true of every human being, as is the second thought in it. God indeed knows each of us. He is fully aware of where we go, what we do, and why. He does indeed allow circumstances that reveal every detail of our hearts. The question then becomes whether we will come through at the end of all of that like gold when it has been refined. Job had that assurance, which was a major factor in his being able to endure what he saw as senseless suffering. For us today, that assurance is really available only through a grasp of and trust in the atoning work of Jesus Christ. Unless we understand that Jesus’ cross was really for our sins, and that it was enough to cover them, then close self-inspection reveals too much to ignore, and we have no hope before God. The ideal position is to be able to say with Paul, I know of nothing against myself, but at the same time leave judgment, even of ourselves, in God’s hands, as Paul did. (1 Corinthians 4:3-4)

I certainly need to be as careful of this as anyone. I need to be as sure as I can be that I am fully obedient to all that God wants of me, while at the same time acknowledging that it is only by His grace and power that I can do that. I am to “be holy, even as He is holy,” (1 Peter 1:15-16) without being “holier than thou.” My life should be an encouragement to others that it is indeed possible to walk in obedient fellowship with God, without making them feel condemned for their shortcomings. That’s a tall order! It can only happen if I walk in full awareness of and appreciation for God’s grace and love, and allow those to flow through me unhindered.

Father, thank You for the privilege of being Your agent. This week has had many such moments, and I’m grateful. I ask for continued guidance and anointing as we head home today, that all of Your purposes may be accomplished on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!