Job 1:22 In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.
“Solid character will reflect itself in consistent behavior, while poor character will seek to hide behind deceptive words and actions.” — Myles Munroe.
Consistency is the acid test for character. Job was struck with financial crisis, emotional catastrophe and crucible calamity overnight. Yet, the consistency of his character validated his unshakable faith. The book of Job was believed to be the first book of the Bible. It is compiled with the poetic books such as Psalms, Ecclesiastes, Proverbs and Songs of Solomon in the middle of the Bible but chronologically Job lived even before Abraham. God Almighty witnessed the consistency of Job’s character. Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil” (Job 1:8). Job’s testimonial was an exemplary discussion in the court room of heaven!
Consistency in our response and reactions will determine our reliability. Our consistency during good days and bad days, on the pinnacle and the pit will reverberate the stability of our character. Job was tested on the three pressure points that authenticated his character – family, finance and fervor. The filthy rich man Job, became an overnight popper. While he was engulfed in the loss of his business and the grief of his ten children, his wife tongue-lashed him, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9). Inexplicable sorrow and stress broke out as sores all over his body. Three friends who came to console Job also mounted curses on him. Yet, Job was consistent in his trust in the Lord!
Consistency and character:
- Pressure: Consistency under pressure forms character. Job lost his countless oxen, donkeys, sheep and camels; he lost his job, shares, gold and property in one day. He had to declare bankruptcy and close his business with no time to recover but Job did not accuse God. Being steady under financial pressure solidifies character. As gold is refined by fire, character is fine-tuned under pressure.
- Pain: Consistency in our expressions and lamenting during emotional pain certifies our character. The consistency of Job’s character echoed into the courtroom of heaven when he responded to his embittered wife, who was like a mamma bear who lost her cubs, “The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21). Words we speak during excruciating pain will make us powerful or pitiful.
- Persecution: Consistency in persecution will purify our character. Even the friends of Job pierced him with tormenting accusation, his spouse accursed him and servants left him, yet Job did not waiver but confessed – I know that my redeemer lives (Job 19:25a). Hold your tongue if you cannot speak faith but don’t mutter doubt. Even our silent mumbles of disbelief will be amplified in the courtroom of heaven by the accuser, the devil.
Job was recompensed twice as much as he lost, only because he was consistent. Consistency under pressure, pain and persecution is the secret to double reward. Be Consistent.
Job 19:26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God.
Prayer: Compassionate Father, give me the tenacity to be consistent even under immense stress and uncertainty to receive a double reward. Amen.
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