27-Jan-24
What does it say?
Job lost his possessions, children, and health as the result of two conversations between God and Satan in the heavenly realms.
What does it mean?
In the first two chapters of Job, two scenarios are taking place. Glimpses of Job’s life and character show how the Lord had provided for Job and blessed him with possessions and family. Appropriately, Job glorified God with how he lived his life. Even so, God permitted Satan to bring suffering into Job’s life. Once Job’s possessions, children, and health were gone, his wife encouraged him to curse God. God was not the source of Job’s suffering, but He did permit it. Job’s response was to bless the Lord regardless of his circumstances since God permits both good and bad.
How should I respond?
It’s difficult to understand suffering. However, we can rest assured that Satan’s power is limited to what God permits. What kinds of suffering has God allowed in your life? How have you responded? Has it drawn you closer to Him or pushed you away? Your ability to love and serve the Lord isn’t limited by your circumstances. Because He is eternal, God sees the whole picture: past, present, and future. You can learn from the past and try to understand the present. Jesus, however, is the sure hope for your future. Will you choose to trust Him with your circumstances today?