Scripture

Our verse for today comes from 2 Samuel 24:8, ” So when they had gone through all the land, they came to Jerusalem at the end of nine months and twenty days. ” 

Background

I am thankful that I do not have to take business trips. There have been times in the past where I have visited one of our other offices out west on occasion, and I didn’t mind that. I enjoyed being with them, seeing their part of the country, and making a better connection with those whom I ordinarily worked with over the phone and computer. But part of the enjoyment of being away was knowing that I was going to be heading home in just a matter of time. Even my longest trip would not last a full seven days. I might be gone for the entire work week, but I was always back home with my family for the weekend. Some of you do not have it this way. Your job takes you on the road constantly, or for great lengths of time, or both. You may even leave town unsure of exactly when you will return. That can’t be easy. Nor does it seem the life made for just anyone. It would take a special person to live and love that particular lifestyle. And imagine how much more difficult it would be if you had advised against the trips that you were taking. Imagine the opportunities for frustration and anger if you disagreed with the very reasons that kept you on the road. Now, put that all together. Combine the challenge of being gone for long, uncertain periods of time with the angst of working on a project that you were completely opposed to. That’s what Joab and his captains were dealing with when David sent them to count the people. And their extremely laborious, manual task took them almost ten months to complete. 

Application

Fortunately, you probably won’t be assigned a ten-month project out of town (unless you’re a soldier). But you may very well be in the midst of a season of frustration that feels like it may never end. To you I would say that there is relief on the way, except I don’t know that for sure, and it’s much too trite for your circumstances. However, I do know Jesus loves you. Your boss may not, nor your governor or president. But the God who made you absolutely does. 

Charge

As we seek Him today, ask God for what you need to endure. Begin to see His hand working through what you are going through, and share in His peace.