Today, I am sharing the next two days of devotionals because, basically, they don’t need my help.  After reading through Day 69, I didn’t think there was much I had that I could share, or wanted to share.  Sure, I have plenty to say, but I imagine you do too.  So, without further ado, here are the next two days.

DAY 69:  GOD’S SILENCE

READ:  Read the passage, attempting to identify in your own heart and mind with the expressions of the speaker.
JOB 30:15-20  –  “Terrors assault me–my dignity in shreds, salvation up in smoke.”  And now, my life drains out, as suffering seizes and grips me hard.  Night gnaws at my bones; the pain never lets up.  I am tied hand and foot, my neck in a noose.  I twist and turn.  Thrown facedown in the much, I’m a muddy mess, inside and out.  “I shout for help, God, and get nothing, no answer!  I stand to face you in protest, and you give me a blank stare!”
THINK:  Read the passage slowly again – until the words sink into your consciousness, becoming familiar to you and resonating with your present state of mind.  Don’t try to analyze Job’s response or determine its validity.  Simply open yourself to his experience.
PRAY:  What goes on inside you when you hear Job talk about God’s silence?  Perhaps you feel irritated, or maybe you relate because you’ve experienced times when God seemed inaccessible.  Talk to God about your reaction to this passage.  To help clarify your reaction, write about it.  Give yourself permission to be completely open and honest.
LIVE:  Right now, practice resting in the knowledge that God is with you in both words and silence–whether you’re doing things right or doing nothing at all, whether you feel he’s near or you feel nothing.  If this is especially tough for you to do, pray the prayer “Lord, I believe a little; help me believe more.”

DAY 70:  GOD ENCOUNTERS – On this 7th day, review and reflect on all you have read this week.  Take the time to revel in the ways you’ve encountered God in the past 6 days.