Real Hope: Learning From the Book of JobSample

Job’s Perseverance

Isn’t it cool how the Old Testament is referenced throughout the New Testament? Their connection is steady, palpable, and evident. What came before informs what follows. The Hebrew Scriptures are woven in a variety of ways through the ‘second half’ of the Bible, from direct quotes to the (almost) unexpected nod to Job in James.

This is the only mention of Job in the New Testament. I’m surprised by that, given what happens in the book of Job (Exhibit A: Satan’s schemes) and how much the New Testament discusses enduring with God through suffering. Definitely not surprised that James jumps to Job as his real-world example of patience despite painful circumstances.

As if he had been asked to provide a one-sentence summary of the book of Job, James points to what already has been seen and heard. You get a strong impression here that Job’s perseverance must have echoed down through time. What God ultimately did for Job must have been visible for generations to see, as learnings from the book of Job glared and blared throughout God’s people.

As I rushed to this Job reference in James, I did miss how it shows up as a warning to rich people amid the ‘miseries coming on you’ (verse 1). In contrast with those who exploit others while bemoaning any adversity or affliction, wealthy Job reveals what it means to invest in God – no matter what.

Written by BEN MCEACHEN