December 18

In Job 15–17, Job is surrounded by voices that misunderstand him and misrepresent God. Eliphaz’s accusations grow harsher, insisting that Job’s suffering must be the result of deep wickedness. Instead of comfort, Job receives condemnation. Feeling abandoned and misjudged, Job cries out in agony. His words are heavy with grief, yet even in despair, he expresses a remarkable truth: My witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high. Job cannot see God’s purpose, but he clings to the belief that Someone above sees him, knows him, and will defend him. His hope may be battered, but it is not extinguished.

Revelation 14 gives us a powerful vision of this heavenly Witness and Advocate. John sees the Lamb standing on Mount Zion with His redeemed—victorious, secure, and marked as God’s own. The chapter contrasts two groups: those who follow the Lamb with faithfulness and those who follow the world and face judgment. In a world shaking with turmoil, believers are called to patient endurance, remaining faithful to Jesus no matter the cost. Their hope is not rooted in ease but in the Lamb who reigns and who will judge with perfect righteousness.

Together, these passages remind us that faith often must endure seasons of confusion, accusation, or deep sorrow. But like Job, we have a Witness in heaven who knows the truth. And Revelation shows us that this Witness is also the victorious Lamb who will make all things right. Our suffering is seen. Our faith is valued. Our perseverance is not in vain. When we cling to Christ, even imperfectly, we hold onto a hope stronger than any suffering we face.

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