Dust and ashes, is not a catch phrase in our 21st century vocabulary. If you dropped those two words into today’s contemporary culture, some might recognize them as part of a lyric, and others, at what is often spoken at funerals. Either way, because of what they stand for, we push them to the recesses of our minds.
The exact phrasing of dust and ashes is found three times in the Bible. First, in Genesis 7 depicting humility and submission. Secondly, in Job 30:19, in mourning. And finally in Job 42:2-6, in repentance. But why that phrase? Dust, yes, because that’s what we are made of, but why ashes?
The book of Job begins with a wonderful description of not only the blessings God had bestowed on Job, but also a picture of Job’s upright heart. He feared the Lord, turned away from evil, and regularly interceded in prayer on behalf of his children.
One day when Satan was appearing before God, the Lord pointed out Job’s godly character. Satan retorted,
“Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.
Job 1:10 nkjv
The Lord responded,
“…Behold, all that he (Job) has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person. ”
Job 1:12 nkjv
Thus the devastation begins. First, all of Job’s livestock was destroyed. Then his children were killed when a windstorm collapsed their house on them. Job’s health was next.
Throughout all these trials, Job did not sin, even when his well-meaning “friends,” in placing blame, told Job he must have sinned. They didn’t come to empathize with him but to give their two cents worth. Their judgement made Job’s anguish even greater. In mourning he covered himself in dust and ashes. (Job 30:19)
While trying to prove to his friends he was blameless, an attitude within Job’s heart gradually came to light. Seeing himself as innocent and righteous, he began to speak with an accusing heart towards God….Who was listening….Silently….Close by.
It was as if the Lord suddenly stood, making His Presence known to all who were there. Turning the tables, He began questioning Job.
“Who is this who darkens counsel
By words without knowledge? Now prepare yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me.
Job 38:2-3 nkjv
Under God’s questioning, it seems Job, for the first time, came face to face with the Lord. And with that meeting came the repentance Job so deeply needed.
“I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, And repent in dust and ashes.”
Job 42:5-6
Just as the Lord allowed trials and tribulations to come upon Job, He does the same for us as believers today. Not to be unkind, berate, or break us but to bring the highly esteemed opinions we hold of ourselves to an end.
It is God’s kindness that opens our eyes to see that He IS God and Lord of all. Not us. When, in confession, we come to that understanding, His consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29) purifies our hearts. What is left are the dust and ashes of self.
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him. Jesus, living in our hearts, is the only way that can truly happen. (Colossians 1:27)
Galatians 2:20 (tpt) says it best:
“My old identity has been co-crucified with Christ and no longer lives. And now the essence of this new life is no longer mine, for the Anointed One lives his life through me— we live in union as one! My new life is empowered by the faith of the Son of God who loves me so much that he gave himself for me, dispensing his life into mine!”
God’s word is true, perfect, and right. All things do work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Amen and Hallelujah!
Kimberly
