Job is an interesting book in the Old Testament. It’s also a little confusing. There is a particular verse that has been playing over and over again in my head. God and Satan are having a discussion and God says, “Have you considered my servant Job.” This verse perplexes me. Why would God point someone out who appears to have his life in order?
Is it possible that God was confident of the final outcome? Did He know that Job would not break? In my own life does He allow those difficult times? And if so, does God allow them to happen because He is confident that I won’t break? If that is true, it changes the way I look at those times that just suck.
Suppose you had a wonderful boss. This is someone you trust, admire and want to please. You’ve worked with this person for a long time, you know their character. One day this ideal boss comes to you and says, “I have a project I want you to do. It’s a big one! It’s going to take you a while. Most of all, it’s going to be very difficult. During the project you will most likely hate me, question the validity of this project and begin to lose faith in yourself and me. But at the end, I guarantee, that you will be amazed at the outcome.” I know what my response would be, “If you are sure that I’m the right person for the task, let’s do it.” I would also proceed with real expectations, a drive to success, and a ton of notes reminding me of this originally conversation.
What if life is like this? What if God says, “I have a task for you, it’s going to be hard, you’re going to question me, but that’s OK; I have confidence in you. You won’t break!” How would we go through life? Would we stop blaming others for the situation we find ourselves in? Would we approach life much more lighthearted? I believe so.
“Have you considered my servant Job? Go ahead, do what you want. I know him. I know his character. Most of all, I know he will not break.”