Is there always a cause-and-effect relationship between good and bad things that happen to us? (Job 21:13)

Is there always a cause-and-effect relationship between good and bad things that happen to us? (Job 21:13)
Photo by Valeria Vaganian / Unsplash

Welcome to the Odd Verse of the Day!

Today's verse might leave you scratching your head:

"They spend their days in prosperity and go down to the grave in peace." - Job 21:13 (NIV)

This seems to contradict the themes of suffering and questioning found throughout the book of Job. Let's delve deeper.

Job's Frustration

Job is a righteous man who has suffered tremendously. He lost his wealth, family, and even his health. Here, Job wrestles with a truth that stings: sometimes the wicked seem to have it easy. They live comfortably and die peacefully, while the righteous endure hardship.

Looking at the Surface

This verse isn't praising the wicked. It's highlighting the unfairness Job perceives. It raises the question: is there always a cause-and-effect relationship between good and bad things that happen to us?

Beyond This Life

The book of Job doesn't provide a definitive answer. But throughout his journey, Job wrestles with his faith and ultimately reaffirms his trust in God. Perhaps the focus shouldn't be on earthly prosperity, but on a deeper purpose and eternal reward.

Today's Takeaway

This verse challenges us to consider:

  • Does temporary suffering diminish the value of a life lived faithfully?
  • Where do we find true peace and security, regardless of our circumstances?

Job's story reminds us that God's plans are bigger than we can understand. While life may be unfair at times, we can hold onto faith that God is ultimately good and just.

Let's pray

Father, we trust your plans are bigger than our own. Help us navigate the moments that seem unfair and find a way to give you glory. Amen.


Today's verse comes from my video series, Roll For Verse. In this series, I roll dice to pick a random Bible verse each day. Then, I spend a few minutes sharing devotional thoughts on the verse. If you'd like to join the fun and study the Bible in a new way, check it out on TikTok or YouTube.

@pastor.payton R4V brings us to a large and heavy question today: why is ghere suffering?? Job attempts to answer just this question… but as you can see we dont really find one. This vide format is based on @Adventures In Aardia roll for sandwich. Come back for more just like this. #rollforsandwich #dice #bible #rollforseries #verseoftheday #christiantiktok #christiantok #rollforseries #dailywisdom #dungeonsanddragons #dailyroutine #bookofjob #job ♬ original sound - Pastor Payton