Over the years, I have often faced challenges that appear like déjà vu. It is as if I have read the script, seen the movie, and known the ending, while the real message continues to be a mystery. At times, I have even wondered where God was through it all.
As the saying goes, if we fail to learn from our past, we are bound to repeat it. Until we finally experience a breakthrough, the struggle will persist. We wonder what prevents us from experiencing that breakthrough. Or how much of our experience rests on God and how much on our own choices. Like a veil in front of our eyes, strongholds of fear keep us in the dark, and suddenly, just as Job alluded, that which we fear most is upon us.
The familiar story of Job is a powerful reminder of the journey toward overcoming fear. Despite God calling Job righteous and just, Job faced immense repetitive trials that tested his faith and character. Then God spoke louder than all other voices in the middle of Job’s lamenting. Job’s perspective changed as he acknowledged his limited understanding of God’s true nature. The story highlights God’s mysterious ways and the importance of correctly interpreting life events. It emphasizes the need to see things from a higher vantage point and break through the cycles of fear. The message is one of hope and the transformative power of faith in the face of adversity.
In Job’s story, if we focus only on the restoration of his goods and family, we may miss the deeper work God accomplished in his heart. God always completes what He starts. In the end, Job could see God as his defender and redeemer.
We will all need to confront our fears eventually. Thankfully, God’s love has promised to deliver us from all our fears. God’s assurance may be the simplest reassurance we need to see God clearly.
What fears are you still battling? Incline your ear to God’s voice. God calls you to a deeper level of intimacy and a greater revelation of Himself. He simply waits for your response. Let Him lift your veil of fear.
Elia Dragone was born in Italy, lived in Switzerland as a child, and emigrated to the US with his family as a teenager. He is happily married to his wife, Roey, and resides in Connecticut. He has two wonderful sons. His career and passion in aviation has spanned most of his adult life. Over the years, he has served his local church body in capacities such as men’s ministry, worship, and deacon. Currently, he is the Director of Community Groups for a multi-campus ministry. He has a passion for science and loves to explore the connection between natural laws and spiritual principles. He desires to share his life experiences and lessons learned while encouraging the body of Christ to run hard after God.