17 September 2019 – Job 1:12 (NIV)
Scripture
12 The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.”
Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.
Reflection
Satan claimed that the only reason Job worshipped God was because of his wealth and comfortable life. Satan’s claim was that, if Job knew suffering and poverty, he would lose his faith, which was not built on relationship with God but on the fact that he was well-off.
The reality is that many people indeed have a utilitarian view of religion. We might believe deep down statements like: “I believe in this because it makes my life better; it makes me more prosperous; I can pray and be granted the wishes of my heart.”
While God desires that His children are lavished with His blessings, He wants first and foremost that we trust Him, and build our lives on our relationship with Him…even during times of difficulty and suffering.
And the reality is that we will ALL know suffering in our lives – sometimes as a direct result of our identities as Christ followers. This verse in Job shows that God is still sovereign, and while the suffering may come from Satan, God is in control and has greater desires for our lives as we follow Him.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Stop and pray for someone who is near to you right now, someone you can see.