Today’s Scripture: Job 35-37

Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. – James 3:10

Years ago, my cousins Eva and Dean raised large hunting dogs. Most nights these dogs would bark at the moon, protesting its appearance. I suppose dogs were doing the same around the world. Quite possibly, the moon was being barked at twenty-four hours a day. But I noticed something about the moon. It was totally unaffected by it all.

That is what Elihu is saying about God in Job 35:5: “Look up at the heavens and see; gaze at the clouds so high above you. If you sin, how does that affect him? If your sins are many, what does that do to him?” Our good deeds and our bad deeds have no effect on our unchanging God. He is not added to or diminished by our successes or failures.

But Elihu also pointed out that our actions, good and bad, can vitally affect the welfare of the men and women around us. A wicked person can rob someone of his wealth, his peace of mind, or his good name and reputation. On the other hand, a good person, through kind words and acts of love and concern, can help others find peace of mind and soul.

It’s a simple yet profound reminder that while the nature of God is completely out of reach of our sins and our service, the lives of people are greatly affected by what we say and do. So let us praise the God who cannot be changed and love the people who can.

Prayer

Lord, keep me from speaking words that wound; instead, help me to speak words that promote the welfare of others. Amen.

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