Job 42:6 Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
When Almighty God appears, touches us, and speaks with us, the natural response is to despise oneself and repent in dust and ashes. God appeared to Isaiah and he said, “Woe is me, for I am undone.” Jesus called Peter after the miraculous catch of fish, and he said, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man.” Then the Lord extended mercy to both of them, as He did to Job.
Throughout the story the friends asked Job to admit his sin. When Job did finally repent, after God’s appearing, Job did not ask forgiveness for secret sins but for questioning God’s sovereignty and justice. Job repented of his attitude. We sin when we ask, “If God is in control how could he let this happen?” We cannot know the mind of God or the reasons for everything that happens. We must often choose between doubt and trust. Trust God with your unanswered questions.
Every day God confronts us. And daily we repent. Repentance and faith is the regular pattern of our lives.