“When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them” (Job 29:24 NIV).

This verse is one of my favorite verses in the Bible. While this verse is obscure, many people who have experienced trials in their lives, after reading the book of Job, may remember reading this verse. There is a longing in Job’s discourse when he says in verse 4, “Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God’s intimate friendship blessed my house.”

I have adapted one Bible commentator’s outline for this section in Job 29; think for a moment about Job’s past, his position, his peace and his power.

We all have a PAST, and at times it can be painful to us, even haunting. While things may seem fine and good to people on the outside, we remember where we came from and what we’ve been through. Job had pain, more than most people, but he didn’t let his past defeat him. He used his past as a platform to help others. We all have a past. The question is, what are you doing with it? Have you offered all you are to God so that He can heal you and use your past as a testimony of His Grace?

While Job’s POSITION was one of influence and respect, he looks back with sadness when he thinks of his possible future. But he knows that his relationship with God will ultimately leave a legacy for those around him. What legacy are you leaving behind for those around you? Are you a leader who encourages people to do good?

Job had PEACE. He could be at peace because he knew God and knew that whatever happened, his roots went deep and wide. Job was strong and healthy, ironic considering all that he had come through. Here is where we see Job smile on them—those who had questioned the authenticity of his testimony, those who had urged him to curse God and die. Job helped them and forgave them with a smile. Can you see Job foreshadowing Jesus’ plea to the Father on our behalf, when He said from the cross (Luke 23:34), “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”? Who have you smiled upon lately?

People around Job looked to him, and in that he has POWER—power to bless, power to lead them gently, not as a dictator, but as the rain falls on the thirsty ground and brings new life. Speak so your words fall softly on the ears of your family and friends. Are you speaking in a way that has power to build or to destroy? Job’s demeanor and his heart won the people over. The one who was in need of comfort, comforted those who mourned. The people could move forward because Job moved forward in smiling on them.

I have the privilege to work with some very kind and generous people who have made an impact for good in the Lord’s work in Oklahoma. I see this kindness and generosity in the faces of those who hear Anthony Jordan speak about Falls Creek, and they smile at what has been accomplished together. Sam Porter visits with people who have experienced disaster, yet he can smile along with them because of what God has done. Please smile on those around you this week, and glory in the goodness of God together.

For more information about the Falls Creek Centennial Campaign Phase II, the Oklahoma Disaster Relief TEaM Center, or regarding other BGCO capital campaigns, contact Marty Harkey at 405/516-4868, mharkey@bgco.org, or toll free at 800/690-6933.