Job 9

“If only there were someone to arbitrate between us, to lay his hand upon us both.” (Job 9:33, NIV)

As Job wrestles with his relationship with God, he arrives at the place where he knows that he needs a mediator. He cannot hope to win his case against God in a court of law. All of his words would be used against him. He would be declared guilty before One so holy. If only he had someone to lay his hand upon them both to reconcile them. Job does not realize it at the time, but the person he seeks is Jesus Christ.

“For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” (1 Timothy 2:5–6, NKJV)

This is man’s greatest need. People think they need more money, better health, a bigger house, a higher position, a better marriage, (or to be divorced). The truth is that they need a Mediator to bring them peace with God, peace with others, and peace with themselves. Because Christ is a Man who was tempted in all ways as we are tempted, He understands us. Because Christ is God, He knows what God requires to forgive us of our sins and reconcile us to Himself. Not only did Jesus lay His hand upon us both, but He also gave His own body as the ransom, thus making atonement (at-one-ment) with God.

Job identified his deficit—but in Christ we have no such deficit.

“Heavenly Father, thank you for providing your only Son to be our Mediator and Advocate before you. Help us draw closer to you today through His faithful intercession. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.”