Job 7:17 – WHAT IS MAN?
Job 7:17 What is man, that thou shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon him?
Job is discouraged with his plot in life. Job has suffered much as a result of Satan tempting him to curse God. Job has lost his family, his wealth, and now his health. Job sees how he once was a great man and how in a very short period of time, he lost it all. Job does not see the value of his life, and as he contemplates the purpose of life, he asks a very important question.
What is man that we magnify one and not another. In today’s society, we tend to worship entertainers and sport figures. These individuals are practically worshiped by the society that we live in. However, some of these individuals are immoral, have drug and alcohol problem, and are really not the kind of people you would want to hang around with. However, because of their looks, or their voice, or their talents, they make millions of dollars and are practically worshiped by many.
How many individuals are superstars one day and then after a very short period of time, no one remembers them? A sports star if he or she is lucky will be able to be a start for only a short period of time. What happens ten years from now when the money is not flowing their direction and millions are not coming to their concerts?
What is man that we should worship him the way that we do? Why do we allow our heart to be enamored by something that only lasts for a season? An actor can only act for so long; a football player can only play for so long, and a musician can only perform for so long before their time in the sun vanishes.
Instead of focusing our attention upon something that is temporal that last only for a season, we should set our heart upon something that is eternal that does not change. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. God is the only who will be judging every word, thought, and deed. It is God who is our Maker, our Director, our Provider, and our Protector that we should be worshiping.
Job had so much, he had wealth, he had a family and he had a very good relationship with God. In a short period of time, because he lost so much, Job saw the vanity of the things that this world can offer unto you. Job was a man who feared God and hated evil. Job had a regular practice of worshiping God. Nonetheless, no matter how close our relationship with God is, we need to make sure that we do not fall into the trap of worshipping the vanities of our fellow man.
Just because everyone around you seems to be worshiping others, does not mean that you need to. Just because those around you seem to be worshiping themselves and the vanities of life, does not mean that you need to. Instead, keep your focus upon God and understand that as the King of Kings, HE is the only One worthy of your worship.
It is easy for the things of this world to entangle you. Nonetheless, by patiently keeping your focus upon God and allowing HIM to meet the desires of your heart, you will find true contentment with your life. The world only teaches you impatience and teaches you to try to obtain things that perish. You will never be content with what the world can give you. It is hard to focus upon God during both the good and the evil times. Nonetheless, regardless of what is going on around you, always be quick to look towards God.