Beautiful Word Devotional #36

After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.

Job 42:10

Without knowing the context of this verse, you might think the simple act of praying for others results in great wealth. That’s not the takeaway here!

First, a little background. Remember that Job’s friends didn’t act like friends. Although they began well (they sat with him, grieving quietly, saying nothing), they didn’t continue well. The moment they each opened their mouths, words of discouragement flowed.

So Job praying for his friends is a more difficult act than merely throwing a prayer heavenward. When he prayed for them, a whole lot of pain, unforgiveness, and bitterness existed between them. In order to pray, Job had to deal with his own lack of forgiveness.

There is something powerful about choosing to let go of pain, of sharing it openly with God, of choosing to forgive those who wronged you. When you do this, you’ll experience a soul richness and inexplicable peace. You’ll be set free from bitterness. That is wealth, indeed.

Lord, I want the soul richness you offer. I choose to forgive my friend today. Please help me, amen.