Today you should read: Job 1:13-22
Happy Thursday… thanks for reading JumpStart. Yesterday Rich got us started on the oldest book in the Bible – the book of Job. You probably know this story – at least in part. Yesterday we read about Job’s character and an interaction between Satan and God about him.
The Permission (v.12)
This is a strange idea – Satan in heaven talking with God – God agreeing to allow Satan to test Job in such a harsh way. Reading this may frustrate you – even anger you a bit – but we must remember.
The purpose of our life is to bring God glory. It’s not about us – it’s about Him!
The Persecution (v.13-19)
Satan is an expert at persecution…
- All the livestock (his wealth) stolen …donkeys, sheep, camels
- All his servants killed by enemies
- Children killed in a disaster
Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour… 1 Peter 5:8
But, we must remember that nothing can come into the life a believer unless God approves. It must cross His desk and receive His permission first – and it is ALWAYS in our best interest and for our good.
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Job’s Reaction (v.20)
Job was human – he was a man – not Superman. He grieved – He mourned. That’s normal. In times of persecution we must normalize the normal. The key idea is that although he mourned in a normal way – he didn’t stay that way. He did what David did….
David strengthened himself in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30:6b
Job remembered and trusted in what He knew for sure… … God is Sovereign – He’s in charge … God loves me – more than I could even imagine … God has a plan for me – and it’s a good one! (Jer. 29:11)
Job’s Resolve (v.21-22)
Look at the bounce back – look at the resolve.
He said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God. (v.21-22)
Would you like to have the ability to respond like that when disaster strikes you? That comes from walking closely with God, knowing God and His character, and a deep-gut trust that the Holy Spirit provides in times of need.
What can we learn from Job?
– Trouble comes– even into the most godly life
– God allows it for His glory and our good
– Hurting comes with the territory
– hurt, but don’t stay hurt
– Remember the character of God and focus on that. Resolve to trust Him through it.
Posted by: Tim Parsons
JumpstartCPC.com 
So gotta love it when Satan’s attempts to destroy turn into God-Glorifying worship. The relationship Job had with God trumped Satan’s attack.
Oh that I too would seek such a relationship, one that knows God is for me, fighting for me and right by my side regardless of the horrific circumstances, devastating losses and just plain evil that surround me. He reigns supreme and deserves to be worshipped! Period.