Commentary and Reflection:
Since we are reading the Bible in approximate chronological order, at this point, it is time to read the book of Job.
“There remains much to support the tradition that ascribes the book to Moses. Moses spent 40 years in Midian, which would give him ample background for the strong Arabic flavor that is evident throughout the book. Moses’ Egyptian background also explains the allusions to Egyptian life and practice that occur in the book. The picture of God as creator and sustainer fits well with the creation narrative preserved in another book written by Moses.” SDABC, Introduction to Job
“The book of Job is a poem of human experience, with a prophet of God as its author.” SDABC, Introduction to Job. ||
In the first chapter of Job, we read that Satan attended a meeting of angels before God, not to worship God but to sow doubts among the attendees about His character.
“It does not appear reasonable that the scene took place in heaven itself, for Satan was excluded from its precincts (Rev. 12:7-9; SR 26, 27). He did have a degree of access to other worlds.” SDABC, Job 1:6
The name Satan means “adversary”, John calls him “the accuser of our brethren”. Revelation 12:10. In the following two chapters, we learn more about Satan, God’s adversary: He is against us. The thief does not come except to steal, to kill, and to destroy (John 10:10). He has his instruments on earth, evil men, disease, disasters, etc. God imposes limits on him that he cannot cross.
Also, the adversary’s thinking is revealed:
- Cynicism: “Job serves you because you have blessed him.”
- The utter absence of love and faith: “Job does not love anyone, he has not sinned while being tried, because his body has not been touched. “Skin for skin! Yes, all that a man has he will give for his life. Job 2:4
In both points, God showed to his children, through his servant Job, that the adversary was wrong, even when his wife did not help him, Job responded: “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” 2:10
We must steer clear of the desire to judge the motivation and intention of others. There is such a thing as sincerity, real goodness, there is such a thing as unconditional trust in God. We live in an unfair world of injustices and pain because of sin and the influence of God’s adversary. Often, we do not understand why bad things happen; but when they do, we are not to question God, but to trust Him.
“God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him.” DOA 225.
“Worry is blind and cannot discern the future, but Jesus sees the end from the beginning. In every difficulty He has His way prepared to bring relief. Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing.” DOA 330
May the Holy Spirit enlighten us as we study the book of Job.
