0159. Job

Job

The great underlying message of the Book of Job is the reason why saints suffer. This is all brought about by the slander of satan that Job served God not from any love to God, but because he received from God, temporal blessings.

The conclusions of the whole Book concerning suffering may be thus tabulated:

1. Suffering is due to sin, and is a matter of chastisement. This was the idea of the three false friends.

2. Suffering is due to sin, and is educational, and God’s call to man to return to Him. This was the idea of Elihu.

3. Suffering is sent in order to make the life capable of enlarged blessings. This was Job’s contention.

4. Suffering is sent that satan’s slander may be disproved, and that God may be glorified. This is God’s version.

Paul said: "I take pleasure in reproaches, necessities, persecutions, distresses." And why not sing?

"God lives, shall I despair,

As if He were not there?

Is not my life His care?

Is not His hand Divine?"

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR