Job 1 Commentary

Job 1 Commentary

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Job finds himself in a position of a victim in a fight that he is not even aware of. He is the main subject of an experiment going on far beyond the world of mortals. He is the target of unsuccessful satanic attacks because he is the subject of Grace.

Welcome to the Book of Job. Let’s enjoy this journey.

There are many plots to unpack. Firstly and importantly, the righteous man begins to suffer because of events beyond his control. Yes, it is possible. Secondly, Job’s good life is because of the LORD. But interestingly, Job’s misfortunes are actually also because of the same God. He has allowed both.

The existence of Satan is interesting. He is shown as another personality there about, roaming back and forth, destabilizing the world of mortals. But Job has been a difficult target. Reason? The LORD has put a hedge of protection around him. Satan thinks the relationship between God and Job cannot hold if the benefits are withdrawn. If the benefits are withdrawn from Job, his love for God will disappear completely. Equally and consequently, if the forsaken Job curses God, the LORD will no longer love Job.

The rest of the book is arranged to look at the details of this very important life argument.

For now, we can see how the LORD allows satan to zero Job in a series of attacks. The attacks come in all sorts of colors and shapes. Some are man-made while others are natural. Job is brought to zero but satan’s plan fails. Job falls on his knees in worship. The book should actually end here but we have 41 more chapters. Job’s surviving family is yet to react. Job’s friends are yet to have their own say on Job’s calamities.

This is exactly the saint’s life. You say yes to suffering because you strongly believe the LORD works in all things for your good. He is after all in charge and rules over the entire universe. He is great and knows all. So you understand. But the thought of family and friends, and the world around you quickly take you to the debate table again. The next moment you actually don’t understand. You go through gears of emotions: understanding and misunderstanding, acceptance and rejection, or simply confusion. It’s a terrible song on repeat.

How we all wish it ends at the moment of great faith with a Job-like declaration: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”

This is a luxury many saints don’t have.

The Book of Job is the LORD’s special gift to a world that is increasingly becoming more and more materialistic. Job worships the LORD with and without physical possessions. It is now the saint’s turn. Let’s see how it goes with you.

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