The mere mention of the Book of Job is enough to send one running. The book reminds us of loss and devastation and painful suffering.

After losing everything but his wife, whose only advice was to “Curse God and die.” (see Job 2:9), Job still remained faithful to trust God.

His three friends travel a distance to come sit with him and offer their comfort and counsel. These friends, while meaning well, could only point out to Job that he had somehow caused his own suffering and was reaping the effect of his own sin.

These friends completely ignored the fact that Job was a righteous man, blameless and possessed complete integrity (see Job 1:1).

The book of Job records dialogue between Job and his friends, and Job and God. God challenges Job with questions:

• “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?”
• “Where does light come from, and where does darkness go?”
• “Have you visited the storehouses of snow or seen the storehouses of hail?”
• “Who laid out the path for the lightening?”
• “Can you direct the movement of the stars?”

After the first round of questions, the Lord then asks Job: “Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?” (see Job 40:1).

Job correctly, and wisely, responds: “I am nothing ”“ how could I ever find the answers? I will cover my mouth with my hand. I have said too much already. I have nothing more to say” (verses 3-5).

God then goes a second round challenging Job again:

• “Are you as strong as God?”
• “Can you thunder with a voice like his?”
• “Who has given me anything that I need to pay back?”

Job fully comprehending what God was conveying to him, now replies : “It is only You who can do all things.”

With that conclusion, Job repented, taking back everything he had said.

But God was not done with him yet.

I hope you will join me at Woman to Woman Ministries HERE to read of the last challenge God poses to Job.

Photo by Rosie Fraser on Unsplash
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