I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. (Job 19:25)
M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN, writer of films The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, and The Village, is famous for the plot twists he builds into his suspense stories. Once we think we’ve finally figured out what’s going on, we’re blindsided near the end by some completely unforeseen circumstance or event, changing our entire perspective on the story. Yet, at the same time, we wonder why we didn’t see the surprise coming all along.
I love a good plot twist. I appreciate the cleverness and creativity required to come up with something an audience can’t even imagine. It is so much more satisfying than watching a sitcom with predictable punch lines and dull writing, or completing a book when you’ve already learned the ending.
Job exhibited great confidence at the lowest point in his life. After losing his livestock, servants, home, children, health, and the support of his friends, Job boldly declared his Redeemer was alive and would be there for him at the end of his trials—though faithful, destitute Job surely did not anticipate the events that took place later in the story. When Job’s testing was complete, God blessed him with more animals than ever, numerous children, and many more years, which he lived in prosperity and happiness. Who saw that coming! God is the real master of plot twists and surprise endings, each one written for the good of His children.
Remember daily that God is doing work in and through you; be faithful while He does.
Hally Franz is a former high school guidance counselor, turned stay-at-home mom. She enjoys being a 4-H leader, church secretary, book club member, and traveler.
