If nothing else, this introduction to Job reminds us that there is a spiritual battle raging in our world. CS Lewis said that Satan would prefer one of two things: either we give him credit for all of the evil in the world or we don't give him any credit at all. It's interesting that Job takes the latter approach. However, even in the midst of all of the trials, Job is able to say the famous line, "the Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." Job realized something that I will talk about tomorrow morning during the first sermon in the LIFE series: when you follow God's ways he blesses your life with contentment that extends beyond the circumstances. How often does our happiness come and go with life's ups and downs? How is it that Job can say, "blessed be the name of the Lord" even when he has lost his family and his wealth? It's because his relationship with God allows him to be comforted.
The same concept is spoken of in the great hymn, "It is Well With My Soul" where the writer, Horatio Spafford, had just lost his entire family to an accident at sea. Shortly thereafter he wrote, "Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul." It is a peace that passes understanding and joy that extends beyond life's circumstances.
Job has more to face, and his attitude takes a downward spiral when his body is covered in boils. Nonetheless, he serves as an incredible example of one who turns to God despite life's difficulties.
I like the chronological aspect of this reading plan. Here we hop over a few chapters and books – from the fall of man and flood of the earth to the story of Job. Usually the former is not fresh in my mind when reading the latter.
In this case, it’s an almost humorous exchange between God and Satan. “The LORD said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan answered the LORD and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.” (As if God has to ask what Satan has been up to.) It’s almost like God is asking “How is that ‘greater than Me’ thing working out?”, but the irony is lost on Satan who seems rather caught up in this wonderous earth he thinks he owns.
I have to feel bad for Job, but I think God is trying to teach a few lessons here; lessons best left expounded upon by better minds than my own. One thing is clear to me – true contentment and peace is found when looking to God, and God rules above all else. We may not understand what he’s doing, but he is so much beyond anything we can comprehend, it’s best we don’t try to figure it all out. Instead, just try to figure out how to trust him. (That alone has kept me busy for many years. No wonder Jesus compares us to sheep, one of the dumbest animals known to man.)