Suffering: A Study in JobÀpẹrẹ

What does it say?

Job lost his possessions, children, and health due to two conversations between God and Satan in the heavenly realms.

What does it mean?

The first two chapters of Job set the stage for the unfolding story. Job, a righteous man, had been blessed with many possessions, a large family, and good health. Appropriately, Job responded to his blessings by glorifying God with his life. However, God permitted Satan to test Job by taking away his wealth, family, and health. At the crescendo of Job's loss, he worshipfully declares, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (Job 1:20-21). Although God permitted Job's suffering, Satan's subservience to God's plans and purposes indicates God is ultimately in control of all things.

How should I respond?

The Bible does not shy away from the topic of suffering. All across its pages are seasons of deep darkness of God's people. In every moment of difficulty and season of despair, God walks with His people in their tribulations. What seasons of suffering have you experienced in your life? Have they deepened your trust in God or hardened your heart towards Him? Even today, God is beckoning you to trust His heart, believe His good promises, and walk in faith in the darkness of suffering. Will you trust Him with your circumstances today?