Last week, I wrote about healing and restoration. One of the interesting things that struck me when Terri talked about restoration was that Job’s restoration came after he prayed for his friends. We know about Job’s immense suffering and loss – of his family, wealth and even health. Yet, the climax of his story is not just his endurance, but how God restored him after he prayed for his friends.
“After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.” — Job 42:10 (NIV)
This has made me intentional about praying for more people – even making a list of all the people I am praying for – praising and thanking God for all my prayers – spoken and unspoken, answered and yet to be answered. I have also been prompted to pray especailly for people who have disappointed or hurt me.
Job’s Prayer was not about himself
With his terrible loss, Job still interceded and prayed for his friends – the same friends who had misjudged him. His obedience to God’s command to pray for them demonstrated his humility and trust in God’s justice.
Restoration came after obedience
It was tempting to resent his friends, who instead of consoling Job, were making things worse for Job. Yet God asked Job to pray for them. It was after Job prayed for his friends, that God restored him. Sometimes, the breakthrough we long for is waiting on the steps of obedience – especially in forgiving and blessing others.
The Double Portion Principle
When God restored Job, He didn’t just give him back what was lost – He doubled it. This is God’s heart – to not only heal but to abundantly restore what was lost, and more! And sometimes, the key to that abundance is forgiveness and releasing others through prayer.
My Invitation
This is my invitation to you today: If you’re holding onto bitterness or hurt, consider what God might do if you release it to Him and pray for those who have wronged you. Your breakthrough may be on the other side of obedience.