As we have been listening to Job, we have been looking for marks of genuine faith. One of the most encouraging signs would have to be Job’s perseverance. While it seems like he comes perilously close to throwing in the towel, Job does not let up. Deep down his faith holds on in hope that God will turn his face back towards Job and listen to his cries.

Where does this perseverance come from? Is it just that Job is gritty, and determined? Do we look at Job and say that he is far stronger than you and I could ever be? Perhaps you are in the midst of significant hurt or grief or loss, and you are wondering if you are going to last it out. Will you lose your grip?

This is where the words of Jesus become such a comfort to us in times of trial. His promises are our hope. He is the Good Shepherd who cares for His sheep: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no-one can snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:28). And as if to confirm the strength of this promise, Jesus repeats it “My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no-one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one” (John 10:29-30).

This is the amazing grace of God in Christ that will carry us through all trials. This is not a promise to keep us from trouble. Indeed, Jesus makes it clear that “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Jesus has overcome, and in His grace we are overcomers. Our faith will stand. I love this quote from a book called ‘Seasons of Waiting’:

“If you feel like you don't have the fortitude for a lifetime of waiting, that's because God doesn't give grace in a lifetime supply. He provides it one day at a time”

Like Job, we persevere because God’s amazing grace will lead us home!