Day 183 – Wednesday, 7/2/2025: Job 25-27 and Matthew 3-4
Old Testament Reading: Job 25-27
New Testament Reading: Matthew 3-4
Daily Psalm/Proverb: Psalm 2
Reflection: The Hope of Redemption and the Call to Repentance
In Job 25-27, we witness the final speeches of Job’s friends, who continue to attempt to explain his suffering through a lens of retributive justice. Bildad, in Job 25, presents a short but powerful argument about God’s holiness and humanity’s insignificance, reinforcing the idea that Job’s suffering is the result of his sin. However, Job rejects their simplistic answers and affirms his innocence in Job 27, holding firm in his belief that he has not sinned in a way deserving of his suffering. Despite the accusations and misunderstandings of his friends, Job remains determined to maintain his integrity and faith in God’s ultimate justice.
These chapters demonstrate Job’s steadfast commitment to his faith, even in the face of immense pressure to abandon it. Job’s continued affirmation of his righteousness teaches us the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even when others misunderstand or accuse us. It also reminds us that our suffering is not always the result of sin and that, like Job, we must trust in God’s redemptive plan.
In Matthew 3-4, we move into the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Matthew 3 introduces us to John the Baptist, who prepares the way for the coming Messiah by calling people to repentance and baptizing them in the Jordan River. Jesus’ baptism marks the start of His mission, and as He comes out of the water, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him, affirming His divine identity. In Matthew 4, we see Jesus being tempted in the wilderness by Satan, yet He resists each temptation with Scripture. This passage highlights the importance of relying on God’s Word in times of trial and temptation.
As we read these chapters, we are reminded of Jesus’ purpose on earth: to bring redemption, to resist the temptations of the enemy, and to lead us in the way of righteousness. His example teaches us how to endure trials, stand firm in our faith, and trust in God’s power to overcome evil.
Key Hebrew Words in Job 25-27:
Job 25:4 – “Clean” (טָהוֹר, tahor): This word refers to purity or being free from sin. Bildad’s claim that no one is pure in God’s sight serves as a reminder of our human limitations, but also points to the purity found in Christ.
Job 27:6 – “Integrity” (תָּם, tam): Tam refers to completeness or innocence. Job's insistence on his integrity, despite the accusations of his friends, highlights his commitment to truth and righteousness.
Prayer for Day 183:
"Lord, we thank You for Job’s example of holding fast to his integrity, even in the face of suffering and misunderstanding. Help us to stand firm in our faith and trust in Your justice, even when we face trials. Thank You for sending Jesus, who resisted temptation and showed us the way to righteousness. May we follow His example and find strength in Your Word during times of testing. In Jesus’ name, Amen."