Limits

Through a series of problems, Job became acutely aware of his limits. He learned that life was short and fragile. He reached conclusions about shadows and flowers that were remarkably similar to those found in Psalm 102 and Isaiah 40. He reminded God about these limits. As he observed, “Man expires, and where is he” (v. 10)? This gave Job a sense of hopelessness. Filled with despair, he saw life as a “struggle” and pleaded for mercy (v. 14).

The Bible reminds us that we all have limits and that life is short. But this doesn’t mean we should feel hopeless. Instead, we should turn to God, be grateful, and realize we can have eternal life! We should focus on eternity, not on the temporary things of this world.

Facing his limits, David asked, “O Lord, what is man, that You take knowledge of him?” Realizing that our “days are like a passing shadow,” he declared, “How blessed are the people whose God is the Lord!” (Psalm 144:3-4, 15).

When we realize our limits, we should be driven to seek God. With David, we cry out, “O Lord, be not far off; O You my help, hasten to my assistance” (Psalm 22:19). We plead, “Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation” (Psalm 38:22). When you think about your limits, use these as opportunities to focus on God rather than the temporary things of this world.