Trusted By God

Christianity is all about faith. It is about trusting the Lord. It is by putting our trust in Christ that we come to receive the benefits of God’s salvation (John 3.16; Ephesians 2.8-9). It is also by putting our trust in Christ that we are empowered to continue living in a manner that is worthy of the gospel.

Christianity is also about being trusted by God to be faithful stewards of the gospel that we receive and enjoy (1 Corinthians 4.1-2). Recipients of the gospel and of its benefits are entrusted with the responsibility to keep the gospel pure, as well as to testify to the gospel by word and by a life lived in keeping with the gospel. “Protect that good thing entrusted to you, through the Holy Spirit who lives within us” (2 Timothy 1.14 NET).

The challenge is whether we will be faithful to the trust that God has given us. One of the most powerful affirmations that a person can receive is that which comes from God himself. Though sometimes God’s affirmation may involve a time of testing, which—even if unpleasant—may strengthen us for our greater good (1 Peter 1.5-9).

The story of Job in the Old Testament is a picture of what it may be like to be trusted by God. What I find most inspiring and challenging is not so much Job’s persevering trust in God but God’s deep confidence that Job will be found faithful. God trusted Job enough to allow others to test Job’s trust in God.

Let it be said that Job’s persevering faith did not mean he did not raise questions about his painful experiences. Sure he had some serious questions, but he never abandoned his devotion to God. He kept holding on to his relationship with God despite the difficulties. He continued to entrust himself to the God who trusted him to be faithful. “So even those whom God allows to suffer should commit themselves to a Creator who is trustworthy, and go on doing good” (1 Peter 4.19 NJB).

The account starts with God’s delight in Job: “Have you noticed my friend Job? There’s no one quite like him—honest and true to his word, totally devoted to God and hating evil” (Job 1.8 The Message). What a profound testimony to a person’s faith. But the premise of Job’s faithfulness is questioned: is it only because he is enjoying all the blessings of life that he worships God (Job 1.9-11)? God then allows Job to be tested. God is confident that Job will pass the test. And Job does remain faithful through it all. In the end God reaffirms his delight and confidence in his servant (Job 42.7-9).

Oh to be worthy of God’s trust!

—Keith Y. Jainga