Dealing honestly, wisely, and compassionately with human pain is an integral part of our job description as followers of Jesus Christ. No one gets through this life unscathed. Everyone deals with pain and suffering at some level. If someone insists she hasn’t, she’s either lying, in denial, or has amnesia. And since God’s second most important command is for us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, it behooves us to learn how to better comfort ourselves as well as our neighbors—both those we rub shoulders with daily, and also our global neighbors, who make up the lost and dying world we’re called to care for.
But let’s deal with the proverbial bull in the china shop, which is the fact that what happened to Job wasn’t what we like to think of as “fair.” I mean, goodnight! The very beginning of this Old Testament book describes Job as a really good guy who was doing really good things with his life. The mention of Job rising early to pray for his kids (Job 1:5) is a common Hebrew idiom denoting a conscientious habit, which means praying for his family was something he did consistently.
Reading about this righteous guy losing pretty much everything—his wealth, his health, and all ten of his children—it’s like biting into a warm brownie and breaking your tooth on a rock. This “divine test” is surprisingly unfair. Surely Job didn’t deserve such devastating loss.
In the New Testament, Jesus blows the idea of human deservedness right out of the water. In His Sermon on the Mount, He teaches that God throws fairness out the window to bless even the unrighteous (Matthew 5:43–45). In another place, He explains that bad things do indeed happen to good people (Luke 13:1–5). And in His parable about the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1–16), He thoroughly deconstructs any notion that we can earn God’s blessings.
The bottom line is this: No matter how many Bible studies we’ve done, or meals we’ve served to the homeless, we cannot earn one of those immunity sticks like they do on Survivor. None of us can get “good enough” to shield ourselves and those we love from suffering. Job proves that “good” people, including people of faith, can and do experience horrific things through no particular fault of their own. And if you want to really blow your mental hard drive, reread Job chapter 1, which suggests that while Job’s faith was truly strong, it did not safeguard him from hardship (v.8).
In the economy of God, Job’s suffering was an honor, a privilege. After all, “should we accept only good from God and not adversity?” (2:10). Our Creator and Redeemer handpicked Job for the honorable position of carrying the weight of pain. While God is not the author of evil (Psalm 5:4), He did choose Job with the foreknowledge that he would carry suffering well, because even our pain is a great conduit for God’s glory.
Can you imagine how different our lives could be if we began to view some of our pain and disappointment as a divine privilege? What if we saw a difficult journey as one God handpicked us to take, knowing that He Himself would strengthen us to make the trek, and more importantly, that His glory would be illuminated through our efforts? Changing our perspective on suffering—viewing it as an honor instead of dumb luck or cruelty—could absolutely change the course of our lives and deeply impact the world around us.
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357 thoughts on "The Setting of the Test"
Really needed this tonight. Thank you ❤️
I don’t think I agree.
I am also struggling with this concept. Not sure how I fully feel about it.
From Lisa Harper’s writing: “Can you imagine how different our lives could be if we began to view some of our pain and disappointment as a divine privilege?” An incredible thought…
Just the perspective change I needed today!
This is defiantly hiring home in the season I am in.
A few months ago, my depression got the best of me and I just wanted to “run away” from God. I was so exhausted with the daily battle of anxiety and depression. And I just didn’t want the battle anymore. I didn’t want to continue to work in my recovery. I hated that I could be so functional someday and others flat on my back. I came across Job’s story lately and it really interested me. I’ve known his story since I was a child but never wanted to dwell on this book coz it disturbed me. What drew me to Job lately (as I stopped running from God) was his journey through all these sufferings. I wanted to learn and understand … and hopefully gain wisdom in how to carry my own pains…
This is a timely word and I’m choosing to trust God with my season of pain and suffering. I’m encouraged at the same time.
I actually chose this plan because I’ve been dealing with my homeless and demented father for the last 7 months which has created an incredible amount of stress in my life. Day one alone has shifted my thinking in a huge way! I pray it blessed you as well.
I loved this quote too!
Teach me your ways oh God! May I be worthy for what you are preparing me for. Your glory and my good.
“Changing our perspective of suffering, viewing it as an honor instead of dumb luck or cruelty…” that one got me. In the midst of suffering doing that or even attempting to do that feels like death!!! But I wonder if that is precisely what God is wanting me to do, die to myself and follow him. I will definitely be processing and meditating through this for a long time.
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“Changing our perspective on suffering, viewing it as an honor instead of dumb luck or cruelty….wow”
Although we all go through bad situations, its about how we handle it. My mom was a by-the-book, Baptist mother when she raised me but as soon I moved out, she did a 180-degree turnaround and has been living the same life style she taught me to live. Even though I question why God decided to alter her lifestyle, it has brought me closer to the Lord because I know he has a plan for each and every one of us. And we may not see the reasoning going through the storms, but He is carrying us through every step of the way. And sometimes He is putting us through a storm to teach us to lean on Him when times get tough! What an awesome God we have!
This is exactly what i needed!
My friend recommended the book of Job to me to read after I told her I work with individuals experiencing homelessness and it is difficult to talk about God to them. I knew the story of Job but I have never read it and my spirit feels like it is jumping around on a trampoline it’s so excited. I’m praying that during these next few weeks that God speaks to us to not only help ourselves but other around who are suffering and tell them that God is strengthening you for your next position, your next season. I pray over everyone reading this that God will give you the courage, strength, and confidence to preach the gospel and share your testimonies. ❤️❤️
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This is the study I was looking for and this spoke directly to my heart I made the focus questions for me to ask me during this journey of learning to understand the passing of my dad
Trusting God in my season of pain and suffering. Trying to lean not on my own understanding- because I have none. Trying to be consumed by God and not my own thoughts and questions. Lord, help me be more like Job. I trust that your will transcends my understanding.
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Amen!
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This is my test in my suffering. To not be mad at God, for my faith to continue. I’m finding it so hard. Job was a great man of faith.
11But stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face.” 10Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 9Then Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason?
I am praying that God changes my perspective on suffering. I have a bitter and cold and resentful heart towards the Lord right now and I so desperately want that to change.
Thank you lord!
Thank you Lord for my suffering and afflictions. Teach me to always be content and thankful in whatever state I am in. For you are and always will be worthy no matter what!
What an incredible thought and perspective that we could and SHOULD view suffering as something we GET to experience alongside Jesus. Definitely helps to turn hardship into blessing.
“fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Reframing my trials. Perspective… eternally minded.
2020 has been one tragic thing after another. God, please help me.
my suffering is not even comparable to what Job went through but I love the thought of changing our mindset to use this pain and suffering to glorify the Lord because He chose us to carry the weight of pain and suffering!!
Some dear friends of mine had their twins at the beginning of this year. The twins were 4 months early. The oldest and strongest of the two lived for a couple weeks before he passed away. They have been in such deep suffering and questioning God’s reasons. They were able to bring their one son home at the beginning of May with such bittersweet sorrow. I know loss and suffering but not like theirs and I feel like a terrible friend for not knowing how to reach out to them. They recently recommended some sermons on Job and while I could barely follow along, I got more out of this first study day than all of those sermons combined. I’m excited to keep learning so I know how to pray for them and be there for them through this grief journey.
Krysta, you are a good friend and if you ask God for wisdom, He will help you know how to support your friends.
Some dear friends of mine had their twins at the beginning of this year. The twins were 4 months early. The oldest and strongest of the two lived for a couple weeks before he passed away. They have been in such deep suffering and questioning God’s reasons. The
I feel like 2020 for anyone has some suffering in it. I mean nothing compared to Job, but disappointment nonetheless. The questions at the end really shift your focus for sure. Like God didn’t create this situation for me to suffer but because it would strengthen us and show others him by getting through the suffering positively and with him!
I have just lost my husband to a self inflicted head injury. Reading my Bible and familiar stories like Job are all taking on new meaning in my heart and for my walk with Christ. May I be used for Christ’s glory amidst this unimaginable pain.
I’ve been dealing with depression most of college but always had this incredible amount of support from my boyfriend of 3 years. October 2019 I was drugged and raped by some random guy at a party and my boyfriend literally helped me heal and never left my side. He literally lived for the both of us during this difficult time. Me and him were supposed to go to Tennessee for one week together and 48 hours before the trip he was in a fatal car accident and died instantly. He is my best friend and who I was planning on marrying within the year. I’m trying really hard to find God and continue to pursue him through all of this but it is so difficult.
Wow Meredith you are dealing with so much. It’s encouraging to see how you are trying to find God and pursue him even in these awful circumstances. Praying for you today.
May God fill you with His love and grace, know that He loves you especially when we can’t trace Him.
I’ve been dealing with depression most of college but always had this incredible amount of support from my boyfriend of 3 years.
‘What if we saw a difficult journey as one God handpicked us to take, knowing that He Himself would strengthen us to make the trek, and more importantly, that His glory would be illuminated through our efforts?’ This has really spoken to me after grief just overwhelmed me to weep over circumstances I have found myself in. It’s not an easy task to change our perspective but I pray that the Holy Spirit will move within me during this study to help nurture this change within my heart.
This is the study I NEED to be in right now. It is speaking into my soul. I can not wait for the rest of the month and the time to think and pray over what I read ♥️
This is my very first SRT study study and oh my goodness did this speak to me. Tears because I’m in a season like Job’s and I want to understand it.
Wow. Being in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, I’m so glad God encouraged me to dig into the book of Job right now. We are currently surrounded by such great human suffering, and as a college student I’ve never really seen anything of this magnitude before. Knowing what to think or how to react has been really difficult, but being forced to leave campus and my friends for the last several months and moving back home has been God’s way of opening up my time to allow me to pursue him better. Despite the suffering, I am grateful for the ways he moves to remind me of his power and glory.
Such a good reminder to rely on the Holy Spirit for the strength we need to carry our suffering in a God glorifying way.
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This is so good. I just had a miscarriage a couple days ago and it’s hard to not ask why or doubt God’s sovereignty. Reading this made me change my perspective I have to view this as a privilege and trust him bc he is good and faithful. And in the end he knows what’s best for me and what I need to take my faith to the next level.
I did this study when it was released, I was not in a place of suffering then. My boyfriend of 3 years ended the relationship 3 days ago, and I have always moved on from a break up rather well, this one has punched me in the gut. I am feeling suffering, of course it’s not comparable to Jobs’ but, I appreciate this study now, more.
I came to this app after a dry spell that spanned months. My fiancé is about to be honorably discharged from the military after four years; we will finally be living in the same state and same city after four years come next Wednesday! With the developing story in Iran, I am jumping immediately to the worst case scenarios—worries he’ll be pulled back in and deployed, worried our wedding will be postponed, worried ultimately that he wouldn’t come back—all before I or anyone else knows what is going to come of this international situation. I worry and worry about these things that haven’t happened or may never even happen. In a moment of spiraling anxiety and fear, I needed to read why my God says about suffering. I needed the reminder that it’s okay to wail and tear my clothes and gnash my teeth. I’m praying that I stick with this plan and that the Lord holds me and reminds me of His good and perfect plan.
Prayers for all who are going through suffering in their lives right now.
I have been going through what I have been referring to as my period of Job. That’s why I decided to do this plan to delve deeper into why we have to face adversity. This passage I strengthening me to keep praising HIM even when I cry why me. Sometimes we need the hardships to appreciate the good.
Im married and have kids…I just recently found out I have PTSD from my last relationship. I never thought I would be in this type of position because I’m in such a healthy place and relationship. All of a sudden my brain just went completely left. To the point I couldn’t sleep because I thought someone was going to hurt and etc. I prayed and prayed why would god do this after all the hard work I put into being healthy spiritually and mentally. I just felt he was against me and it just wasn’t fair for my head to go back to the past when I obviously have a husband who treats me good and I didn’t think it was fair for him neither. We prayed and I got guided to Job. Just reading this chapter I feel like I should just appreciate what god gave me to handle and keep pushing forward even if it doesn’t fall accordingly to my plans. I’m prepared to what else this book gives me.
This study is perfect timing. As someone who has struggled with chronic pain for over 18 years, I definitely battle with God over why this is happening. I think most people struggle with the pain and suffering that this world brings. I’m excited to shift my perspective
I’m going through a break up with a man I love. And we ended things off by telling each other how much we care and love one another. But he needs to go thru this and as the week went on, he realized .. he does not know gods love for himself. It’s tough being on the other hand. Feeling like Job! I pray, I love, I serve, I do everything “right” by the books and yet suffer. But this gave me encouragement that hey — my story in all of this, gods glory will reign forevermore.
Last night I cried myself to sleep…and occurrence which has repeated itself throughout the week. The man who I thought God sent into my life left me, I am overextended financially and the very first day in an extremely long time that I woke early to pray and read my bible was the same day I got “let go from work” due to restructuring. The first thing I did was ask God why me, why now, when I was barely coping as it was. But this study has shown me that it’s a matter of perspective; God is trying to show me something and I should see this suffering as a privilege. I am praying that these painful endings for everyone here are a symbol of new beginnings in Gods abundance and favour. I am choosing to let my pain be a conduit for God’s glory (as hard as it is) because I know he has a greater plan for my life. Praying that the rest of this study continues to be a blessing.
I love this . I am a freshman in college dealing with my own “ struggles “ , even if minor to some. College has been fun but challenging . Life has shown to it change regardless of setting . I’ve found myself already having to motivate myself to get out of bed when battling with my problems . I found myself forgetting that when I put everything, every worry in God’s hand the load gets a little lighter and more bearable . ❤️
I had a hard day at work…well it hasnt been an easy journey in my new job.
Today was exceptionally hard. I couldn’t sleep and was led to this app and I asked God to show me which book to read He guided me to Job.
In the midst of the storm even though I’m all exhausted and stressed up, I am confident and assured that our Father is always with us walking the journey with us. I thank Him for polishing me up by putting me through this trail. I’m looking forward to walking out of this journey in Hid timing.
It is reassuring to think that whatever God has set in my path, He will equip me to deal with and learn with. He will help me through it, and my suffering can be an opportunity for His Glory to be revealed to others.
I’m battling for custody of my 5 year old with an abusive ex. My husband now has to take a job out of state to support my 5 year old (because her dad doesn’t), me, and our 8 month old. We are trying to get permission to move with him as we do not want to be separated as a family. We’ve been through some really difficult times and it just seems to be getting harder. I pray that I can find peace in my current struggles.
My mom died six months ago, and she absolutely wasn’t supposed to. She was 48. There was a blood clot hiding in her lung. It happened in front of my sixteen-year-old brother, and my dad was halfway across the country on a business trip. My twenty-fourth birthday is in two weeks and I am dreading it because HOW does one celebrate anything when their best friend is gone?
I came across a quote a few days after my mom’s passing that gave me immense perspective and hope. “If the day that Jesus died was eventually called good, then maybe one day, our worst days might be called good too.” Before experiencing it in such a deep capacity, I didn’t believe that suffering could ever be called a gift, an honor, a privilege. But now, six months deep into the most terrible grief I could imagine, I am beginning to see the perfectly good plan of our perfectly patient Creator unfolding into the thing He knew it would all along —
I’m loving this study. I think as humans it’s easy to try to ‘fix’ our pain and problems through either our own strength or through our faith in God. But reframing these hard times as a privilege and part of our path in Him is truly liberating. It helps to take the pressure off of figuring out the ‘why’ and ‘how’ and simply leaning on Him through it all.
The thought of seeing our suffering as a divine privilege has me completely taken back. WOW. What a beautiful way to put it. ♥️
Wow. God wants us to see pain as a privilege. So good! Does anyone else find it hard to rejoice during hardships or even everyday life?
I think viewing suffering as an honour is easy to say but immensely difficult to do. We don’t read anything of how God felt as he allowed Job’s suffering. I think, based on the rest of the Bible, that God feels with even greater intensity than we do because we are made in his image. He also feels the complexity of our emotion. It helps me to know that God is truly with me, and others, in suffering.
I am so grateful for this study. Reading everyone’s comments (and praying for you all) is a comforting feeling to know I am not alone in my pain. My fiancé dumped me two weeks before our wedding in a physically aggressive way. He is now suing me as well. I had a burst cyst about a month ago which had me doubled over in pain. I had been interviewing for a job for 7 months that felt like an answer to prayer and just 2 days ago they denied me. I suppose if this is happening, it means God knows I will draw nearer to Him in the process. The perspective shift that it is an honor to suffer is one I will cling to during this season.
2016-My Matron of Honor committed suicide 2 weeks before my wedding.
2017- My Father-In-Law was diagnosed with Lymphoma, My mother was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of Breast Cancer, My father was diagnosed with Diabetes.
2018- we finally got pregnant after years of trying only to lose the baby at 17 weeks.
2019- July 22, 2019 My husband and I were involved in a roll-over collision.
I am struggling to find words for the last couple of years. I’m so exhausted and emotionally worn out. How do you turn death, disease, injuries, etc., into positive weight to carry? I struggle for the meaning of the lessons in all of the above mentioned. I believe God has a plan for me but I can’t see through the pain.
Good devotion!
I lost my husband exactly a year ago due to a motorcycle accident. We were only married for 11 months and 3 days and I was only 20 (he was 25). I’ve struggled this past year with SO many questions as to why and tried to wrap my head around things. But the truth is, I’ll never be able to comprehend “why” okay Gods knows. But I DO know that He picked me to go through it, with grace, and for His glory, as a testimony to others.
Prayers to you and may your strong faith in God continue to heal you and bring you peace.
Bad things happen but it should bring you closer to God. But sometimes I feel like I’m lost and I’m struggling with the pain,guilt , hopelessness
I’ve recently gone through a hard break up. There are times when I’m super positive about it all and feel God’s presence, and then there’s other times when it hurts so much everything is blurry. There are so many ways to look at human suffering. I’ve had to accept, with the help of an amazing therapist, that pain and suffering is inevitable. Just like this study says, no human can escape it. I’ve struggled with trying to control and prevent pain in my life but there’s no way to do that. All I can say is we can prepare for it by having a deep relationship with God. Job had such a strong connection with the Lord that he didn’t lose His faith or Himself in allllll of the suffering he went through because he was on solid ground with God. God by no means numbed his pain, but He was near. Job was faithful to God so He was faithful back to Job and restored his life. So keep pressing into your pain ladies! God is good. He hears your cries and feels your pain. Your suffering will not be for nothing because of Him.
I agree with you, Vivi. Suffering is not handpicked by God, it is a natural human emotion that God welcomes and created, therefore we are free to feel it in its fullest and not have to mask it in a pretty box to make everything better. I think one of the biggest takeaways from Job is when his friends come and sit with him his suffering, not saying a word because they know that they don’t need to try to tell him that its a privilege. To me, trying to say that suffering is a gift or a privilege is denoting the very emotions that God created in our full humanity. God doesn’t tell us to tie things up with a pretty bow, but instead God weeps and suffers with us as a companion and strength to stand by us.
I came across this story about Job while doing my bible studies last year.. was suffering in life then as well as I am still now..its funny how the scripture reached me again….where I am no longer have human strength to go through this situation.
I think I have hit the my last breath/strength when Job lost everything his wealth and health… for me it is my mental health. I know that the job/career I have chosen isn’t right for me after all.. but I kept going back to thinking its the only thing I am good at and making/feeding my mental health getting worse and worse.. I am finding ways to change career.. I have realized I have been doing this on my own strength not asking God for his plans for me.
I do not know what to do but I think God is trying to tell me that to REST and Seek Him all heart and leave everything I have well he has given me which he given me but it is not for me. I am scared but I guess I have to do this.. Trust him with all my heart not even 2% less but 500% all believing in him again as he did once before ! He gave me back my hearing through surgery which was 50/50 chance whether I became fully death but I got Full hearing back. I think I need that kind of trust for my life/career/relationships to give all to God.
3 months ago I was given a gift at my churches vision Sunday, wrapped in job. Initially I thought nothing of it except what were my chances. 9 weeks ago we lost our son. I’ve sat asking why. I then remembered the page of Job I had received. I’m blessed to see this study sitting here. I’m excited to have my thinking encouraged and challenged.
I am really finding it hard to view suffering as a privilege. I miscarried three times and I just lost my third baby a week ago. I am still not understanding why is this happening to me. How do I trust God when I don’t even understand how he thinks or why he allows us to suffer so much loss? We are still childless and my body is weak from all the surgery etc. How can my miscarriages be a privilege
No fancy words we can say can help you with your loss. But we can point you to God who is faithful in the good and the bad. Praying for healing and restoration of your body, mind, and soul ❤️
I couldn’t even try to give you an answer. To tell you that this is the reason why. I don’t actually know. And I love She Reads Truth, and the writers and the women who work hard to write these posts, but yes, to swallow the word privilege in the middle of the suffering is the hardest part. Maybe the act of suffering isn’t the privilege but the privilege is God. Having Him while we go through the pain and while we go through the suffering. He is all knowing. He can sympathize with everything we go through. So those mothers who have miscarried too, the support groups that exist to encourage each other, that’s the privilege, that he would never leave you but be with you during the struggle. He is there in the good and he is there when there is bad. If you’re asking why we suffer, that’s a different question.
Your losses are painful, raw and real as I know the loss as well. It will never be a privilege to have lost. God will show up whether we believe he will or not. I will pray for your strength and for hope while I pray for my own as well.
The word privaledge is a difficult one to use. I lost 2 babies to miscarriage and was in a very dark place. The Lord taught me that He grieves with us. He is the one who created us, our emotions, and knows the desires of hearts. In many instances the suffering we endure is a result of our world being broken. He doesn’t want us to feel pain, He allows things to happen, yes, because He is sovereign and in complete control. It is hard to understand why He allows such heartache and pain. Through my losses, I felt that ultimately suffering happens in our broken world to remind us that this world ultimately isn’t our home. If things were perfect here, we wouldn’t long for glory or feel the need to proclaim His truth with others. Loss sucks, it truly does, but Gods plans for us are for good. He can give us peace without understanding the why because of the Who of Christ. I do count it a privaledge now being on the other side to proclaim His truth through my sufferings. I can truly say, “it is well with my soul” because I know if what awaits in glory. Some scriptures that helped me are John 16:33, Romans 8:28-30, Psalm 16
Praying for you!
I find myself asking God why he won’t give me the things I want so badly. It is incredible how stepping back from the consistent desire to have what I want so badly and looking at my life is like. I’m so genuinely blessed in this season. It’s so easy to constantly desire more than we need and lose sight of Jesus. This is encouraging to praise God even when I feel like my life is lacking.
This study is just what I need when I need something to encourage. I just found out that I have hashimotos disease and have to make some big life style changes. Such a comfort to read that God will use my journey for His glory.
My recent suffering doesn’t compare to what Job encountered, but I have been going through a season of suffering. It seems like it’s one thing after another after another that just keeps hitting me the past few weeks. Financial burdens from car repairs and health issues, loss of a family friend, unreliable, unfulfilling romantic relationships, and then just the little, random things that happen that add insult to injury in the midst of a painful time. I’ve been far from God for a long time now, but even when I’m trying to reject God, I never stop feeling his presence and his conviction. This time has been stressful and has been triggering my depression and anxiety to an almost debilitating point, but I’m being drawn closer to God now rather than farther away, and I love the Job’s example of how to praise through the suffering and pain. This morning as I was driving to work, instead of thinking, “It really sucks that I’m having to pour so much money into my car right now”, I thought, “I’m so grateful to have a car that works and gets me to work everyday. I’m grateful to have a job that helps me pay my bills.” Praying for continued gratefulness and peace instead of resentment, anger, and stress.
I am praying through this study and desperately needing God to restore my faith and passion and push through my frustration, hurt, and resentment. My husband is suffering from OCD – it’s been 2 years and it’s taken almost that to just find someone to treat him with the right therapy and medication (a doctor, psychiatrist, 4 therapists) – our mental health options for society are absolutely awful. Anyhow, we are finally in the right therapy and have started the right medication – but I feel so done all of the time and he feels so betrayed by God and wonders how God could ever allow this? It’s so hard for me to see my strong and incredible Godly husband like this… needless to say, we both need this reminder. And I pray it reaffirms and gives love and life back into our lives.
I am just stumbling across this Bible study series as my life is falling apart. My husband left and filed for a divorce in January and in March I was diagnosed with Lupus. I am struggling to understand why He won’t restore my marriage and why He allowed me to have an illness that is so rarely understood and yet so devastating. Reading the words that what if I counted this as an honor was impactful and will be empowering if I allow it to be. Right now I am in the anger phase of grieving and can’t imagine this is am honor. Time heals . I pray I can find joy in this time of deep hurt and rejection.
I’m so sorry to hear your life is falling apart and that the man who you promised to be by your side in sickness and in health has abandoned you and gave up on your marriage.
Hi Elaine – I am so sorry to read that your life is falling apart. That the man who promised to be by your side in sickness and in health has abandoned you. Gave up on you and your marriage. I pray that you feel God’s spirit near you. I’m sorry this is all happening to you. IT IS NOT EASY. Don’t give up on reaching out to God and asking him these questions. I don’t know why he is allowing this to happen but I pray that you feel joy. Even if it’s a song on the radio that speaks to your soul. I will keep you in my prayers too. Suffering is difficult. I pray that you have people around you like Job did who will come to your side and be ther for you physically. Hugs to you
Praying for you! I can sense your perseverance and faith even among devastating loss
Praying for you Elaine as you must being going through agony. May Holy Spirit give you a fresh joy amidst your suffering and may you have revelations of a new, divine path of life beyond your grief and pain. His mercies are new every morning
Praying for you
Praying for you and your husband Elaine!
I pray that as well.
wow i can’t imagine what you are going through. God will carry you through..seek his face in all of this.
Elaine I am praying for supernatural healing for your life! emotionally and physically. we have a God that wants us to connect and love one another in every circumstance we go through, and I definitely think there IS A PURPOSE for your life! you will impact people around you! your testimony of faith will plant a seed in people’s hearts to want to get to know this God you believe so passionately in! God bless you.
Elaine. You are LOVED. So proud of you for looking to the Lord in all of this. Praying for you right now. ❤️
When joy and praise began to wain after my divorce and crazy circumstances the Lord led me to John 15:10-11. Praying for your journey…you never “arrive” but truly learn who God is along the way!
I’m walking through something too and it’s hard to see the good in it. But He handpicked us to walk through what we are walking through for His glory. Meditate on that.
I’m re reading this series, because I need constant reminders that God did not promise he would take away our pain or that we would live pain free, but rather he would walk with us through it. In 2015, one of my daughter’s was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and my perfect bubble of a life that I had carefully tried to control for 32 years came crashing down. I’ve done this series, I’ve seen a grief counselor and the most helpful thing I’ve read (to help with my anger and confusion) is “Walking with God through pain and suffering” by Tim Keller… (I would highly recommend it!). I’ve found healing for the anger, but I’ve recently been going back through these things… although my anger is gone, now I’m trying to get to the new level of joyful living despite challenges. You are not alone in your pain.
I am so very sorry for what you are going through! I pray god gives you strength and wisdom through your tough times!!
I, too, am just starting this study at a time of upheaval.
Praying for you to find peace and comfort. While I don’t have a major illness, I am battling a major heartbreak right now. I just discovered my fiancé was having an affair two days ago and have left him for good (I had previously forgiven him for cheating before because I believed him when he said he had “changed”). I, too, just stumbled across this study of the book of Job. May we both gain understanding and comfort in these challenging times!
Such a great reminder and great kick off to the first part of this series
Agreed!!
Agreed! Have you enjoyed the rest of the study?
Thankful for this study. There aren’t words to describe the pain and fear my family and I are going through.. We have no idea what will happen but we place our trust in Him.. Even if it’s a tiny mustard seed of faith.
Same.
I really feel as though God gives us the lessons we need at the time we need, I’ve been feeling really confused lately as my friends. who used to identify as Christians now identify as Atheists, constantly bash God or argue about him to me. One of the most common things from them is “How could (a) God exist when there is so many bad things in the world?”
We just need to accept that there is bad to the good.
I think this was such an amazing Eye opener for me. especially with the loss of Nipsey Hussle. I didn’t fully understand how someone that was doing Great and loved by so many deserved a cruel death like that. But when it said that no one is ever good enough to not experience some sort of pain or suffering, my perspective changed. All that God is and Does is never determined by what we do. It’s by God’s Grace and mercy alone & I change my perspective to Suffering and pain is an honor then I can appreciate and be more accepting of the suffering and pain myself and others endure. Knowing that it’s all For our Glory and nothing I could’ve done or done differently that would’ve change it.
Using Nipsey is a great way of connecting this message to the present. Such a tragic event but our perspective can help us see the positive things that have come out of it.
Last year was really hard, and it broke me in every way. Emotionally/mentally/spiritually. Through the suffering, I learned on God heavily and it was the only comfort I had. But now that the trauma has passed, I’ve gone numb. I avoid feeling anything deeply. I’ve become disconnected from myself, my relationships and I’ve distanced myself from God. The fear of feeling pain is keeping me from being vulnerable. I believe that God is a redeemer, and he can take our suffering and use it for something beautiful. But healing from trauma is going to take some time and a lot of hard work. Even with the joy of Jobs blessings at the end, I can’t imagine he ever forgot his family that was no longer with him. Memories of them flashing through his head when someone has the same smile, the same laugh.
Perhaps reframing those smiles and laughs to be momentary “missing” but consistently remembering that they will not be missed forever; setting sights on eternity – remembering that what we have on earth is inconceivably small in the totality of eternity. I don’t think there is much else to be done in those moment.
Do not pray for an easier life, pray for strength from God to get through the one you have been given ❤️
I have experienced pain on a high level but none to that of Job! I know that not if, but when I have to make a hard trek that God will give me strength to get through it!
This message was beyond the truth. It take some real heart to learn these lessons.
I prayed 15 minutes ago for God to give me what I need to get through this difficult season my husband and I are in. Then I got a notification for this study. We have experienced financial loss that was out of our control and my husband is currently dealing with a painful health issue that the doctors have yet to identify, it’s almost too much some days. But God. If Job can still look to the goodness of God when he lost way more than we have, so can I. What a beautiful reminder that even though it feels like nothing makes sense some days I know he is still with me and sees me.
♥️
I, too, had prayed for God to direct me to something to be encouraged by after being in a season of feeling disconnected. My heart has been so lifted by this reading. I work with cancer patients and I’ve been so humbled time and again by just how incredible these brave souls are and they have been one of my favorite patient population to work with. As I was contemplating, “ Why is it that the nicest people are the ones that end up fighting for their lives?” , almost immediately I sensed God impress on me that it’s a badge and not a curse….just like this reading so beautifully addressed…..having the viewpoint that it can be seen as an honor to carry the weight of something so challenging. They are shining lights of courage and bearers of hope ⭐️
Praying you are encouraged and Gods grace over your situation~*
Thank you Tara! I have 2 friends who were diagnosed with cancer in the last year and I found myself thinking the same things. Why did it happen to 2 young healthy women. They have shown their strength and testimony through it. Thank you for reminding me of that thought.
No matter what path God brings us to, He will get us through it, always, by staying grounded in Him.
A good reminder that nothing I can do will protect my family from hardships. That I cannot praise Jesus’ name with a hidden motive of trusting that he will not harm my family. I must praise him, knowing that hardship will come. Gosh, tough to do! Lord, help me praise you through the hardship!
It is a tough lesson for us to learn but I also kind of find freedom in knowing I can’t control things and must let God lead. Trusting definitely isn’t easy, this was such a great study for today.
I’m lying awake here tonight, after a day of pain and feeling a deep wound be slashed open yet again. I said the exact words to my husband- about how all of this pain is unfair and cruel, how God has not been with me through any of it, how he’s not being faithful…I finally decided to open up SRT and clicked on this plan. I haven’t read Job before and today I know the Lord brought day 1 to me just for this reason.
I needed this today too. I have read and studied Job in yeas past but His word is living and active and I’m thankful for the new perspective I’ll gain by studying it again. We’re in an extended, difficult season and there is a lot of hurt. I’m thankful for the opportunity to study this again.
Such an eye opener to read about Job’s faithfulness. Makes me reflect on my own life and how if the same thing were to happen to me, my first response wouldn’t be to worship God. I pray that I can one day be as faithful of a servant as Job was.
What beautiful insight! Thank you!
I feel this to the bone. I’m on the other side of a long, endlessly tough chapter. Pain and pure survival combined. So many nights I cried out wondering what it was all for. I won’t share personal details here, but I truly believe my story is as full circle – in a hair raising way – as they come to translate pain into purpose while paving the way for others, too. The hardest part for me and my empathy is seeing others in their own tough chapters, and not stepping in to solve them for it, but knowing that they must sit in that struggle – all those desperate conversations with the Lord – to emerge as one of his strong warriors that carry His testament forward in the narrative He has already written for them. <3
I can really understand how Faithful and honorable Job was…I get his walk , Silence and how he never complain or blame God. He remained upright to the end of his trail and God kept him through all the pain and suffering.
It’s a difficult thing to hear when you’re suffering that one is to consider it a privilege.. it was easier to understand the concept when there was no suffering. But right smack in the middle of fear, uncertainty and sickness, it really does feel like a test of faith. If I could ask all of you to help me pray for my husband who by God’s grace accidentally discovered a malformation in his brain (while getting diagnosed with meningitis). God has been so faithful healing him of the meningitis. Trusting and believing that my God is bigger than any brain malformation, treatment plans and that the future is in His hands.
Mary Anne,
Could it be that God knew that in the end Job would experience a double portion of His goodness? This reminds me of Deuteronomy 8 when God says to the Israelites that He led them into the wilderness, caused them to suffer hunger and thirst to do them good in the end. I don’t believe that God allows suffering for the sake of teaching us some sort of lesson, but rather to make His goodness known. And as much as I would prefer to experience God’s goodness in other ways that don’t include suffering, it’s in those places of deep pain and hardship that He has been closest to me. It’s in hunger that we are satisfied. It’s through pain that we are healed. I hope this helps.
Hugs,
Alma
Thank you. I needed that to help me gather new perspective.
Your response was a blessing. Thank you for that.
Beautifully put! I don’t think God permits suffering to “teach us a lesson” either. Rather, He uses it to open us up by breaking us down so He can make Himself manifested within us in a more real, raw, and vulnerable way. ❤️
So, I was wondering was the lesson for Satan. Was it not to help Job or for his sufferings to bring him wisdom or to help others. We do not need to find a reason why. Sometimes a parent says because I say so and doesn’t explain to a child who doesn’t have the ability to understand
To see suffering as ‘divine privilege’ – definitely reminded of Romans 12:2, being transformed in our thinking this way, and it’s definitely not a way of thinking for our culture. Very challenging.
Wonderful reminder that I cannot earn God’s blessings or trials. All is His work. Salvation is truly an act and outworking of grace. I pray that I would remember this because I definitely forget so easily! He is faithful!
I have many, many kidney stones, and have significant pain almost daily. I’ve been reading Job so that I can accept what I’ve been given and find my way closer to God. He has never left my side, and He is where I draw my strength.
My Dad passed away December 30,2016 from being misdiagnosed by doctors and it was something that was treatable. And if it wasn’t for God I wouldn’t be getting through the loss but at the same time I’ve want to question Him why, because my Dad was a Godly man, wonderful father, husband just amazing man and other people who aren’t I guess you could say “don’t seem good” surviving death scares and such. I finally came to the conclusion that God is giving them the opportunity to get their life right with God and others. But I’m still struggling even today with the loss of my Dad.
Praying for you as i read this and that God would be nearer than ever to you.
I am new here and I pray God use this medium to straighten me in faith
Suffering and pain are unavoidable. Sometimes it just seems unfair and unnecessary. But how heavenly views aren’t the same as ours. God sees things that we can’t. He for knows us and what we can handle and what need at different times. God doesn’t ignore our sufferings , and he doesn’t come to cause us pain but he does use it. God gives beauty for ashes. I have had to endure some tragedy and heart break in my life but I can truly tell you , he gave me beauty for my ashes. We are not resigned to pain for forever. For my pains and troubles God has always given more. There are new things that grow from ashes.
I’m praying I truly learn and ask God to help me suffer well in any / all afflictions. not an easy feat, but I appreciate what was said about changing our perspective..
I’m days behind on this plan, but I believe it’s timing is perfect. I’m praying I learn more about suffering throughout this plan.
I’m also just getting started on it, but I wasn’t ready to listen until today. What a tough series!
Job’s suffering was at the hand of Satan, right? God allowed it to happen, and Job was strong enough to remain faithful to God, but the suffering wasn’t imparted by God. The reason I purchased this study was because a few years ago a friend had a child that suffered for three years with cancer and eventually died at 3.5 years old. I really disagree with the commentary here. The idea that God allowed that child and his parents to suffer so that He could be glorified makes me scared of God. That poor baby knew God as well as any three year old can grasp the concept and his parents absolutely took the opportunity to glorify Him, but I cannot accept that God used a child sufferings for His glory. He is with us through the suffering and we should continue to glorify Him as He walks with us, but Suffering is a result of Satan and living in a fallen world. He has a plan for our suffering but our suffering isn’t part of His plan.
Each time I’ve picked up this book to start God keeps telling me to give it to a family member. She just found out Monday she has lung cancer and will have surgery this week. I’ve debated on the timing but today I’m obeying, and taking it to her. I pray that it will be a comfort for as she travels this road. I know the Lord will be with her…
Been dealing with doubts surrounding this very issue.
I recently read the book “It’s not supposed to be this way” and it was a life-saver in the darkest season of my life so far. Even though I was only reading ink on pages, I felt like I had a friend who really got it – how hard things were. Being able to empathize with people in this way is a privilege and gift and something I hope to become better at!
Can I have the link to follow and read the book?
It is really hard to grasp that God took away his children. Possesions are material, and I could understand that Job had to be able to loose it. But his children are PEOPLE. They have a life of their own, and that was just over.
Then again, I think that he went through it all for something good. Maybe so he would be in the bible, and be a messenger to all the people who read this book. So, I’d say, it had a goal.
But that didn’t help Job. So, it’s not that we only have to agree on suffering that has a purpose.. we just have to accept God’s plan, because all have sinned, and deserve death. So do we.
And God is God, and we are not
working in a youth group as a leader, i am often faced with this question from some of the kids that have really rough family experiences. it’s such a hard concept to grasp in the midst of excruciating heart & soul pain that God has given us the honor to suffer. however, i love the beauty in the suffering and pain that follows. how beautiful it is to have been given a difficult but oh so necessary testimony from our hardships that will uplift those who need to hear it. He loves us and shows it in ways far beyond our comprehension and His love triumphs over every difficulty.
Praise God
The book of job is crazy I can’t imagine what other people are going throught
It is so hard for me to reframe suffering as an honor, especially when it comes to innocent children suffering.
I think the same! It’s one thing for us as adults to try and have this mentality when suffering comes to us, but why do children have to suffer?
God does see the bigger picture. Children suffering seems so useless and loveless. Why would a loving God allow this? Why? He sees the big picture…
This was a really interesting plan. It made me realize that I have to not only ask God for a life that is burden free but to be strengthened during seasons of trials.
Amen
My deepest desire is to always be a faithful servant, never to be based on circumstance but to always be basedo on opportunity. Let me be mindful my darkest days and deepest pains would never come close to The Ultimate Sacrifice Sacrifice
I want to that one whom God knows my heart. That one that acknowledges, I am nothing without Christ. The one
I’ve had my share of seasons, the hardest with my kids. It’s when you feel the most out of control but its then you realize it’s out of this pain you find a life source
I am new here and this is my first reading plan. I am in a very difficult season right now. But I’m no Job. I’m here realizing that I’m not blameless and that the pain I’m feeling is the result of my own poor choices. But I pray that my awesome God can still use me. That through him I can turn this pain around into something to glorify Him. I can’t wait to continue reading.
You got this ! With prayer you can survive this season by just leaning on God and asking for him to strengthen you !
Thank God that He doesn’t follow our oversimplified, short-sided sense of justice because just as we may think that Job doesn’t “deserve” these trials, our same logic says Jesus shouldn’t die bc he didn’t deserve it and we don’t deserve to be washed in his blood. BUT GOD ❤️ I’ve been blown away today through this study as it’s helping me better understand just how big His goodness is and how much I put it in a box by trying to apply my own sense of justice.
Amen!!
Kelly,
I’ve been through seasons when, though I know God’s plan is always best, my heart is still filled with doubt and fear. Remember, sometimes God calms the storm around us…and other times He calms us in the storm so we can weather through it and bring him glory. Either way, he loves us and knows what’s best for us even if it doesn’t make sense.
Another thing I always try to remember is that fear is a liar. Often times I catch myself worrying because of fear…fear of the future, what someone might think, etc. but then I remember that we are more than conquerors through Christ because he has already defeated evil, and that Satan uses fear to speak lies into our hearts and lead us astray.
This is sooo very true !!
Exactly
Very true indeed, may God help us all
At the bottom of my gripe with suffering is this notion that God is to be worshipped and loved when He has been good. But God is always good — even when things in our lives look bad. God is to be adored at all times. That is our honor. To pour praise and our affections on One whose goodness doesn’t change. He is worthy of that always.
So well said!
This has completely changed my entire outlook. It’s so easy to complain and sit in depression and disappointment when things aren’t working out instead of realizing God is working it all out for my good. What a blessing to now have this insight. Thank you
I struggle with anxiety and depression and I feel like I am constantly searching and sometimes begging to hear God or feel his presents in the midst of my anxiety and thoughts that have taken me over and make me feel like I am drowning. I know he’s there I just wish that I could quiet my emotions and my heart beating fast and the negative thoughts and hear him say “ it’s ok” or feel his calmness. I also don’t understand how or why I even struggle with these issues.
I pray it will go away.
Kelly I also suffer with anxiety and OCD and it’s miserable. I wish God would turn off the thoughts. I guess I need to try and see the positive? God made us this way so it must be for a reason, right?
I’m in the midst of a battle with OCD and anxiety right now, too. Hang in there. ❤️We have to put on the armor of God every.single.day if we are to be able to fight back against the lies and attacks of the evil one. I am trying to start every day with the Word of God and prayer, even if I don’t have a lot of time, because otherwise I’m lost the whole day. It also helps me so much to talk to a trusted friend in the midst of this who will point me to God and comfort me. I hope you are able to find people in your life who will listen and sit with you in your suffering!
I am recovering from breast cancer myself and while I am so very thankful for the relationship with God that has been a direct result from this trial in my life, I too have many of these questions. Thank you for presenting these important and confusing thoughts which I am sure many of us struggle with. Yes, lets see what we will learn from this lesson. :)
This is true blessing to read. I pray your spirits always stay high and you keep this mindset forever ❤️
It makes my heart cringe when I read the words Job spoke to his wife. I have been that foolish woman. Hearing the hope that He has been my God from my mother’s womb is so special. Please help pray and remember He DOES have a plan
I’m behind of this reading…but for a reason, I think. I needed this for today.
It’s a bit hard for me to grasp this scripture. I do agree that God provides us with so many beautiful things and at the same time can take them away. I see that suffering is a privilege. However, many people here speak of challenge making them stronger or changing the trajectory of my life. While I strongly believe that is true, in this scripture Job still loves God but what exactly is the outcome. Was Job made stronger? Was his relationship with God made stronger? Did this just prove that he was extremely loyal and faithful?
What if pain is just pain and nothing comes from that except that? I think that is what I grapple with here. I am a doctor and every day I see people question why they have certain diseases and are healed while others are not. Today I took care of a woman with stage four cancer who was ready and willing to accept what was next, saying God prepared her for either the good or bad news. If death was the case, she would be ready. She will pass and clearly has proved her loyalty to God, but then what happens after? Do all challenges mean that there is something better? Is there always a lesson to be learned? I guess here we learn that suffering can be a gift which sometimes does not result in a happy ending or a betterment of ourselves. Perhaps it just shows God how faithful and loyal we are to him without asking anything in return? In a way I find that beautiful but seeing it happen first hand makes me so sad to see someone who is so faithful, suffering just as Job did.
Suffering when faithful is so hard for me to understand sometimes and I’m excited to go through this lesson in the next days ahead.
I ask myself the same questions. All the time. I started reading Job because of my struggles and I hope that this study can provide some answers.
I think when it comes to the suffering of the faithful we just have to remember that death is not punishment for a believer. Our lives, no matter the length are just a breath in the span of eternity. Our suffering, no matter how great, is just a speck compared to the infinite perfect joy and wholeness we will experience in heaven. So we must remember that even if we get sick in this life, and if God chooses to call us home , no matter what we’ve been through in this life we will have a beautiful glorious eternity to look forward to
Just over a year ago my brother passed away from an eating disorder. Wow, typing that was surreal but this is such an open safe place that it feels ok to be typing this. A friend encouraged me to read Job a few months before he passed, and I tried but didn’t follow through (because everything was going to work out and there was supposed to be healing and restoration, right?!). The same friend encouraged me again to read Job during the months to follow and I tried for maybe a minute and didn’t follow through. I feel as though I’m in a very different spot now and am grateful for SRT to be tackling this book. Looking forward to reading with you ladies and slowly understanding our Jesus a little better.
I chose to do this particular bible study because unlike Job I felt myself blaming god for my adversities. I loved when Job responded “should we accept only good from god and not adversity” this showed me that god only gives us what we can handle. God is not here to break us but to provide wisdom from obstacles placed in our way.
I really love Jobs reply to all this hardship…”Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord”…Job through all this could have walked out on God, but instead he praises the Lord. Job realised that life is fleeting, and all things come to an end as painful as it may be, but that should not stop us from thanking the Lord for the time that we share and spend with loved ones. We should celebrate life and thank God for every moments.
The book “you’ll get through this” by Max Lucado is very comparable to the lessons found in Job. HIGHLY recommend it if you’re going through a difficukt season. It goes through the story of joesph and how unfair and horrible it was for Joseph to be sold into slavery from his brother. Joseph was promised one thing by God and then his life unfolded into a mess (temporarily). These two stories remind me of how much blessing and purpose there is in our heartache and “unfairness”. It encourages and refreshed me to know I’ve been handpicked for hard crap (for lack of better words). God has entrusted me with this hard story, what a privilege. I grew up in a home where my mom was pretty unstable and often absuive. I have often struggled with anxiety and depression I think partly due to that. I’ve been so discouraged, as I’m now in my mid 20’s STILL struggling from my upbringing and it’s affects. Sometimes I get so discouraged that I feel like I can’t give as much as other people people bc I’m just trying to survive each day and I feel like my hurt has ruined me for forever. However, because of my story, I got a degree in counseling and now work at a crisis center-answering the phone for the national suicide line. Because of my story, I feel like I can understand and empathize with people more greatly. What an honor to be entrusted with such a heavy job. Sometimes I look around envious of my friends who have yet to experience deep pain. (Yikes). But I also feel that these hardships have forced me to anchor myself in Christ. I have developed wisdom probably greater than my age that will serve me well. I should be thankful god has entrusted me with such a story rather than living each day unaware of ignorant of deep hurt.
How inspiring that you are using your pain to help others. You will truly be a light and blessing to them.
Very wise words. When we are anchored in God, He will guide us through all the horrible things of this world . Father God, I pray that you will continue to bless Chelsea with the peace and power of Your Holy Spirit as You guide her to use the trials she has experienced to serve others. Lord, I pray that You will continue to guide her so that in all the tragedies she sees, she may share Your love with others. And, may those she encounters see You in her. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Bless you for taking your pain and using what you have learned from it to help others. Chelsea, I am praying for you today, that God will bless you and help you as you let Him turn your pain into wisdom for others.
Chelsea, thank you for sharing your story. I’m deeply inspired by your bravery in choosing to use your pain to bring healing to others. What a beautiful gift you are x
There is strategy in your struggle ♥️
Hmmm…so true…grace that is always more than enough for me…I have come to know God through my pain…I have learnt to trust Him…growing still…growth pains and pangs. Lord even pain serves a purpose
This message hits close to home with everything I have experienced the last few years it gives me a new prospective on how to approach pain and suffering in the future!
This really opened my eyes to the fact the pain and suffering is not punishment from God but it’s a privilege
Indeed
In the phase of my life that I’m in, I feel as if I keep hitting a big brick wall. But after reading jobs story, I feel like I was hand picked by God to handle this journey with poise and grace with favor by my side.
Love the last paragraph. Such a great perspective.
It’s so easy to grumble and complain and doubt that God truly has a plan for each of us. But when we look to Him and really open our eyes to the struggles and heartache that this world dishes out on us, how can you not want to run to Him for safety? To know He is my refuge in those times and that He is for me and not against me is an incredible feeling. It may not be easy to comprehend and fully understand when under trials of many kinds, but talk to God! Be honest! It really frees your soul.
That last paragraph is wonderful! I’m going to print it on an index card to keep as a reminder daily
Tess,
I too really struggle with this idea. If God is all about love, why would he dare let satan do us harm? But what I have come to learn is that our purpose on earth is not to be happy all the time and free of burdens. God made us so he can use us to share his glory and light with the world. Sometimes it takes a situation where you as a believer are put through the ringer and still choose to wake up every day to praise God to make non believers stop in their track and wonder how on earth there could be a God that good! This past summer I lost a family friend to an overdose, and while the family was mourning the loss of their young son, they still stood up and praised the Lord. I have never been so convicted, tried and encouraged in my faith all at once. I thank God everyday for them and how much it has helped my relationship with the Lord develop. But I think we also have to remember that we live in a fallen world… sadly that means there will be natural consequences for our sins, these also can manifest as trials and tribulations, but God still uses those times, our mistakes, to bring Glory to him.
Thx for your reply Alex! I agree with what you say. Our lives are not our own. I pray that God gives me the strength and faith to accept whatever He chooses to bring on my path.
What actually bothered me about this chapter the most is satan just going to God and ‘tempting’ Him in a way like he did to Jesus in the dessert. What an audacity! And God surprises me because He lets satan have his say (while I expect God to just strike him down before he can say a word). Having thought about this all day made me realize just how amazing God is, He is souvereign beyond measure, He is above all, what an wonderful God we serve. He is blameless and just and righteous. All glory to God!
Amen! Everyone wants to say that bad things shouldn’t happen to good people. When in reality, this world is broken and nothing makes sense usually. I hope to see any suffering that I go through as Christ drawing me closer to Him. That I can use my pain to push forward and grow the Kingdom.
I’m looking forward to understanding more of how I can answer the question of “why God allows bad things to happen”. I have never blamed God for misfortune, but so many do. This study really interests me!
What really baffles my mind is that God would even let satan approach Him and conversate with him, and then ‘go along’ with his suggestions and give him permission to strike Job knowing Job would stay steadfast in his faith and that satan would kill his children. I can’t believe God would do this only as a display of His glory. I can only come up with the idea that God took advantage of the situation to show Himself not only to Job, but to his wife and friends. Above all God is love and on a mission to save us all from the horrible traitor satan. Does anyone have more ideas/insights on this matter? I’m really challenged in my understanding by reading this first chapter of Job.
I feel the same way! But I figure over the course of the reading maybe the lesson will become more clear.
Thx for the reply Haley. Yes I’m looking forward to deepen my understanding!
We need to remember that even in our suffering God is there. God sometimes gives is suffering to teach us something it is never long term.
Thank you God, you always seem to know exactly what I need to see/ hear in troubling moments of my life. This study could not have fallen into my life at a more perfect time.
I struggle in this arena on a daily basis. It is so good to read/hear from other people that I am not alone. God has a plan! God is good!
My thoughts exactly!
Psalm22 vs.9 tho took me from my mother’s womb. Though didst make me hope when I was on my mother’s breast.
It reminds me that hope comes from the lord. In my life, in moments of despair, I have found hope to be an anchor for my soul. I didnt even want to but God just wouldn’t let me go. I find myself return to him constantly. Hope in his word, in his promises in his goodness keeps me alive.
Well said. Thank you for your insightful response. ❤️
Another key thing that I picked up from this study is when one is going through something what type of friend are you? Are you a comforter/encourager for your friend/spouse? Or one that tells your friend/spouse to curse God and do away with Him because of these things that have happen?
Suffering as a divine privilege. What a mind-set that is to have—a beautiful Christ centered mindset. That your darkest hours, worst days, and lowest moments we’re crafted for you. Because as ironic as it sounds God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, but that is because He is intervening He is giving you strength. It might at times, certainly feel like too much to bear. People learn so much through suffering be them religious or not so having the mindset that your suffering is a divine privilege, that you were hand picked for this moment, this trial changes everything. Others, who don’t know Christ and who are suffering will look to you and notice the different ways you feel pain, the comfort and peace you find in Christ, the Biblical truth you rest in, and a community that surrounds you. They might wonder—how in this dark moment do they prevail. You are bearing witness to the glory, and power of Christ himself in this moment. For it is when we are at our lowest and most humble that Christ engulfs us, becoming so much bigger than we are. I’m not saying that we will do all of this perfectly, that’s impossible. Or that in the midst of our suffering we will respond ‘like’ we’re supposed to. But I’d pose the question—how do you respond to pain? As long as you are in Christ, even if you try to run from Him in your pain. He will pursue you, keep you safe, and continue to knock at your door until you let Him back in. He never leaves. It’s easy to feel lost and abandoned sometimes you don’t feel comfort, peace, rest, or community. But I think that refocusing our thinking to this divine purpose and reminding ourselves that we really truly are never alone. That the Lord is always with us even if it’s in ways we don’t understand will help us accept the circumstances in our life that we can’t seem to fathom.
First of all: I love Lisa Harper and the insight she gives on the book of Job. Shifting perspectives to focus on godly things and not earthly things, is key to truly seeing and understanding the beautiful nature of our Lord!
This is really good, it definitely challenged me. I’m not at a place yet where I see unnecessary suffering as a privilege but I do want to get there
Man this is so good!! This truth about Job changed my life three years ago this year when I cursed God after sustaining an injury. But God used this injury to completely change the course of my life and redirect my path – ”Let the bones you (The Lord) have broken rejoice” Psalm 52.
For First Responder’s Wife,
My husband is a first responder, retired now. His desire is for all first responders and their families to read Emotional Survival For Law Enforcement by Kevin M Gilmartin. He says that short book along with Christian counseling saved him. He got his counselor to read it with him. I pray for you and all the first responders and families.
I am currently on month 8 of going through a breakup from a 5 year relationship and I’m spending my college spring break at home, while everything on my social media is pictures of friends on the beach or in Europe. I was just laying here feeling sorry for myself when the notification that this devotion was up popped up on my phone. I am in awe of Job and his faithfulness. I know I am not that strong but I pray that I will be and that I will understand God’s plan for me, and that I will trust in God’s overwhelming goodness.
Praying for you! That is hard :( I know how it feels to break up and feel very lonely… glad God led you to the study.
I also received the notification and have an overwhelming time watching over my 4 children, and feeling unworthy of anything. 27, no college degree and barely enough money to make rent. I saw your post and wanted to tell you, social media will never help. I recently gave up Instagram (where I was trying to run my blog rueestevez on) because it’s such a distraction and honestly made me feel extremely overwhelmed while comparing myself with everyone else. I suggest strongly that you get off of social media and really try, it’s going to help you tremendously as you focus more on the Lord and what He’s trying to do in YOUR life. Blessings, hugs and kisses to you
Praisw GOD**
This reading has been a reality for me when I was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago. In the beginning I had many questions on ‘Why’.. but now looking back Im beginning to see it just like it was described in the devotional.. As an honor and privelege. Its when I learned to walk with God through the darkest valleys and experience His Strength was enough to carry me through. Praise Hod my recent scan shows no evidence of cancer in my body.
Thank you Lord for your faithfulness through tough seasons and your continuous strength you give me. Help me to see past earthly hardships to look for spiritual blessings!
Wow I can’t believe how on time this is! I recently experienced pain I’ve never ever experienced before. I mean bawling the whole weekend from “loss”. But I’ve been praying for wisdom, and that’s not something I can attain through my own human eyes. It comes from God and He is shifting my perspective on suffering through pouring out of His word when I seek and read. Lord I pray for reveal of Your needs, Your plan, Your will for me. Thank You for Your word! Amen ❤️
Learning to smile in your valley ijo
I’m going through such a difficult moment, who isn’t though? This is a time in my life that I need God the most. Praying for all you.
I Keep Feeling The Leading To Study On Suffering And Pain Learn The God View On It. I Am Really Excited For What This Series Hold And What I Will Learn From It
Reading this was so refreshing. Like many of you I’m going through a season of pain, but I honestly (even at my saddest point through it) have prayed to God and thanked him for the pain. And the pain is real. I am usually someone that struggles with talking to people in general, but especially unbelievers, about Christ. However, in venting about the issue to my friends that try to console me, I have talked so much about God and his goodness through this trial, and it’s honestly the first time I’ve gone through pain feeling grateful to Him for it. I’m not ever lecturing my friends, but I feel like watching me go through pain with the very very real feelings and mindset of “God is in control. I KNOW and FEEL something good is coming from this” is really giving my them something to think about, and I feel that it is the “good” that God is seeking from it. Especially since God made me a person that doesn’t normally talk about personal, emotional, or spiritual things (which is something I’ve been working on a lot), it truly seems it is having a positive effect on the people I love. I just hope and pray that I cling to God and keep my integrity in the way Job does through this trial.
I have never posted a comment but am eager to study Job as I am in the same boat as those who have already commented. I do feel that Job and many others I know have been going through unfairness and I know that is not God’s perspective. Praying this study will help me see what God intends through suffering and hardship.
I’m beginning this study in the context of being at the UN for the Commission on the Status of Women. Lots of painful stories are shared here, but I feel as though it’s not my place to point to others’ suffering and say they should feel honored. I don’t think that’s what the commentary contributor was necessarily saying, though. Maybe she was illustrating a personal outlook we could have about our grief and pain. I’ll curious to learn more about Job, especially as I try to make sense of how to respond to injustice
Doing Lisa’s job study while we do this. Already learning so much and God is changing my outlook completely!
So informative! So good! Thank you for sharing.
I am deeply convicted by today’s teaching. I’m glad these first chapters of Job and the concept of pain being a privilege was juxtaposed with the myth of deservedness, the truth of life being unfair, and the parable of the workers who all got one denarius. I have been wrestling with feelings of envy toward a friend who has been blessed with an unlikely relationship and engagement, along with some other things going on in her life. I understand that envy is like a slap in the face to God, not being grateful for what I do have and having no faith of what’s to come and the blessings in my own life, and I have been so deeply ashamed for having those feelings toward her. The teaching today made me realize that in all things we shall praise God and give Him glory through our life. The way we live and our faith, through the good but especially through the bad, is where we can bring Him the most glory. Handling the envy and letting go of self-pity will bring Him more glory than blessings in my life will. I hope that makes sense. It’s not about me at all, it’s all about God, His goodness and giving Him the glory in all things. Hallelujah!
One of the things that struck me was the lord asking satan “where have you come from?”
The lord knows all things. He knew before the presence where satan has been. Why even ask… similar to God asking Adam and Eve in the garden as the hid – “where are you?” So I now ask myself and ponder, why does God ask questions he already knows the answer to. There must be some powerful introspective reason our hearts need to explore….
I had the same thing stick out to me today. The Bible even has the same phrasing of the question and answer twice which I believe is by design. I don’t know the actual reasoning- I might just do some research. I wonder if it is for us the audience to be reminded where Satan is? He is roaming the Earth and walking around on it.
I chose this study because I’m in a place in my life that I just don’t understand. It feels wrong to be upset or frustrated with God of the “unfairness” and all the human emotions that go along with the struggles we’re facing. The message I receive from the Christian world around me is that I should smile and be happy regardless of what is happening to me.
The “unfairness” part of the study was very convicting to me – yet I found comfort in the mourning Job was doing. I can feel my feelings and not pretend all is well while knowing that there is a reason and a promise behind the pain. It isn’t unfair, I’ve been chosen for this path.
Amen!
❤️
I’m so blessed by this message today. I’m currently struggle and dealing with some challenging times in my life. Is so refreshing to know that God is with us and uses ALL things for our good.
A few days ago I found out that my husband, a first responder, was struggling with suicidal thoughts. Tears spring to my eyes just typing that sentence. I’m terrified. I’m heartbroken. I’m continuously asking God to help him.
On the positive side of things, I feel that our marriage has never been stronger. We talk about what he’s feeling. We talk about what I’m feeling. I read devotionals like this and I ask him to read them too.
He is saved, but in his line of work he sees the worst parts of life every day. Pray that my wonderful husband and father to our children finds peace – that he knows he is loved by God and his family.
Today’s devotional really spoke to me. Thank you, SRT. Thank you, Jesus.
I am praying for your husband- and for you.
This is my current suffering as well. My sweet husband has been battling depression over last 8 years, but really over the last year. He has been in ministry for the past 8 years but He is currently out of a pastoral role to focus on getting better, figuring out which medication is best and seeing a Christian counselor. We are right smack dab in the middle of this trial. Suicidal dreams and thoughts have been consuming him. To see a man of so much faith and commitment to The Lord be so burdened and overtaken by this darkness is so hard for a wife to watch. I sympathize with Job and reading how his wife responded to his suffering teaches me to make sure I am always pointing my husband to Jesus during this storm. Continuing to stay rooted in God’s word is so important to remember that God IS good, and not to allow a circumstance to overcome us is being a recurrent them in my life these days. So thankful for God’s word and a community of believers to share with.
My dad was a pastor, and started dealing with severe depression before I was born and through my early childhood. Through Jesus, medication, and counseling, my dad finally got through it. I’m praying for you and your family. God is with you, he loves you, and he has a plan to bring restoration and redemption.
I am praying for you and your husband. Standing beside your husband and letting him know he has s no alone in the fight is vital.
I am praying for you and your husband.
Prayers for you, your husband, and your children. My dad committed suicide 10 months ago and it has been a very hard 10 months. I wish that no one would ever have to walk this path, as it is painful, confusing, and heartbreaking. I pray for peace and comfort for your husband and that he would find rest in the Father.
My deepest prayers for you, your husband and your family. May you feel Gods presence as He guides and envelopes you with His love.
Praying for you, your husband & your family, and any other family experiencing this. May God shine on you & yours so brightly that the warmth of his love & protection will cover & protect & build you up together. Blessings to you brave ladies for sharing xx
Praying for you too! When times are tough i cling to Romans 8:28. God is the great provider!
I came across SRT today for the first time, and decided to give this study a try, as I find Job to be such a remarkable person and example God gave us as a lesson in seasons of trials. What I didn’t expect was to be in tears reading each of the comments, and seeing how God has worked through our moments of difficulty to showcase His glory.
I too have encountered my own trials, and while I have not yet seen how this will help others the way some of yours have, it had taught me to grow closer to Him. When you can do nothing but cry and be filled with sorrow, regret, shame… you learn in the end that God’s mercy and grace is more than sufficient for us. An incredible message, and truthfully, one that took me a long time to truly believe.
Thank you for sharing and your honesty, ladies. I’m fortunate to have stumbled upon this study, and am so looking forward to going through this study with you all.
It’s interesting that God “allowed Satan” to attack Job because God knew that Job would never deny God’s goodness. I think the book of Job only proves that every Good and perfect gift is from God. Any suffering we endure is not “sent from God himself” it is attack of darkness and Satan. God however did remove his hand and covering from Job to prove a point that Job would not deny the GOODNESS of God. We are under the new covenant after all. And we are heirs of Christ, Job was righteous under the law, something almost nearly impossible. The New Testament says “We do not wage war against flesh and blood, but against prinicpalities and powers of darkness, rulers of wickedness in the heavens. We are called to stand firm and fight. We have been given authority against all attacks of the evil one. He has been defeated, and has no power or foothold to attacker’s or my family. It IS finished.
This devotional hit me hard, and has given me lots to think about! Can I look at pain and disappointment as a divine privilege? Can I view suffering as an honor? How can I glorify God in my difficulties?
The story of Job reminds me to cast aside my perfectionism because there is no such thing. Although the thought of losing everything like Job scares me to no end, I am content that God is sovereign and just. The beauty of Job’s story is the humility in his brokenness, the honesty of it reminds me of just how human and fragile we all are and how much we need to submit to the will of God and forego our own will.
It does seem insensitive to think of it as a divine privilege, but isn’t it? God chose you. He chose to grow your wisdom, he chose to grow your knowledge, he chose to let compassion seek through the depths are your heart through heart ache to make connections. To make connections with yourself and with those around you. He chose you to be apart of the greatest honor of all. I think it would be just insanely selfish and naive to go through life thinking pain shouldn’t exist. Without pain how are we supposed to expand, grow or make connections?
Changing our perspective should be daily.
I think we absolutely do and I think we even water down our own suffering when we feel it’s not “as much as” someone else’s. There is so much suffering in our world today, it’s hard not to compare or try to make ourselves feel like we should just “get over it”. I struggle with this a lot, I’ve really tried to give myself more grace, but also extend more grace as well.
Do not struggle. Your pain is your journey. Do not compare. Be logical and kind to yourself.
I recently came out of one of the most difficult times in my life. Looking back, I have begun to praise God for His giving me what I thought I despised, even while despising Him. His mercy and grace through this whole thing has humbled me in a way I would never have let myself experience had I had the choice. Thank You Lord, for being Lord.
Just a question for thought I had while reading through the Scripture verses and devotional. But do y’all think that sometimes we discredit others suffering? That basically we consider what someone may be going through as not be suffering because it’s not something like what Job went through?
Job is written as a narrative with the prequel included in the story line. Specifically God shares with us the suffering of his righteous child, Job; the conversations and events in heaven before hand, and the advice of several friends and his wife. I ask myself: Why? Why a narrative on a faithful-servant-suffering-unjustly? Why the background story? Why include the wife’s response? And, why the various friends?
Then I think about the posts ladies have shared through the last few studies. We struggle. We suffer. Sometimes it is a result of choices we have made, but not necessarily. Certainly the book of Job magnifies the error in placing judgements on someone else’s circumstances. It speaks of continued error in giving advice to a spouse or close friend based on feelings or traditional knowledge instead of Godly direction.
I think it also speaks of the peace of Job’s heart amidst the tremendous suffering. He isn’t questioning God or his relationship with him. Job humbly gives Him the worship, respect, and awe deserved, period.
Job’s life exemplifies a righteous man, loving-godly father, husband, and respected friend.
True to the faithful Word of God, we will read, and the Holy Spirit will use the Word to minister to each one uniquely. We may chose to share, we may chose to just dwell in the thoughts, but together we will grow deeper in our faith and relationships. Thank you ladies and SRT, but mostly thank you God that Your Word is living and working to make us more like You.
As I began reading this passage, I was struck with the fact that I don’t feel like I am going through a time of suffering right now. Yet, in reading through this, I know that in seeing how Job suffers and how his friends respond; even though I’m not suffering, I can still learn something from Job’s example and maybe from the poor examples of his friends later on.
Similarly, I was reminded of something I heard about 2 weeks ago. Suffering is special for our time on earth, and the worship that we offer God in a time of suffering is special and unique for now. Because when we get to heaven there will be no pain and suffering and we can’t worship in the same way. It doesn’t make it easier to go through suffering, but keeping the perspective of in the midst of suffering saying God is still good and still sovereign and I will worship you even when my life is a mess – that’s something you won’t do in heaven.
This is a response to MARIANNE REUTER
I had a similar question to yours and then I remembered the background of it. If this book was written around the same time that Moses was alive they wouldn’t have had the Levitical system in place yet (in which the priests sacrificed burnt offerings on behalf of the people). The burnt offering from Leviticus was also one that would be sacrificed every morning and go all day to cover all the sins of the people at all times in addition to other sacrifices they were required (sin offering, guilt offering, etc.) So, here in Job’s story, we see that he had some knowledge from God that it was something that needed a sacrifice.
I’m only 25 years old. Currently having chronic neck pain and with sharp pain shooting up to my head. At times my whole neck gets tense and tight to where I can’t even move it. I also found a small bump in my neck. This started in January 2019 and I’ve been so upset at God for it all thinking I’m too young too be in so much pain. Yet, Job has boils all over his body, his wife urging him to curse God, and without cursing or sinning, his response is “should we accept only good from God and not adversity?” WOW!
Friend, I am so sorry for your pain. I will be praying that there are answers soon, that you will experience some relief and that you press into Jesus in this season.
“Unfair” is an understatement. This doesn’t make sense, that a man who put God first daily, cherished his family and laid them before God consistently. To have that all stripped away from him is devastating. Just because God foreknew he will prevail through it all. For me, I have to let go of all that makes sense to me and cling to faith because no matter how many times I read Job, I still don’t understand why. I hope that these next few days will be an eye-opener.
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). Seeing suffering as a privilege – an opportunity – that doesn’t come naturally! We try to avoid pain, suffering, and other hard things! To know that God – my faithful, loving Father – allows suffering and promises to give grace for every challenge changes the whole view of suffering. He chooses me to walk this path with Him.
This is a great reminder for me as well. Thank you!
Lisa – I couldn’t finish my thought until I got on a computer. I have a hard time typing on my phone. I think that we can often look at instances in our lives and wonder why – sometimes even the good things – and know that God is preparing me or someone else for something through this. Everything is done to and for HIS glory – EVERYTHING. We sometimes only stop to think about it or “dwell” on it when it is affecting us adversely. Sometimes our grief, our struggle, our pain – or even our reaction to those, is to encourage someone else. I often have thought of God watching Jesus on the suffering on the cross and understanding that this suffering had to be done for the benefit of SOMEONE ELSE, even knowing that some of those he was suffering for would reject him. I’m afraid I would have cried foul for that one! Not fair! Why me?!?! We have to trust His hand, even when we can’t see it!
I ❤️ the teaching to day!!
And what I learned from the reading and the teaching is that Satan has to meet with God and give an account. Also Satan can’t touch us unless God gives him permission too. Yes things happen and suffering is not something that we can avoid, but God picked us for a reason and it is to make us closer to him, stronger, and wiser than before! Suffering is growing in the faith and showing off how amazing our God really is!!!
I have to admit, I used to visit this site frequently. Somewhere along the way, “life happened” and I stopped visiting as often. This last Tuesday, a very dear friend and old love of mine passed away. It has been a tough, difficult and heartbreaking time. The loss of him made me reflect back on all of my pains in life, and yet I heard something today call to me to come see what was here. I know it was an act of the Lord himself that brought me to this study at just the perfect time while I endure this hardship. He really does look out for us in ways unknown. Thank y’all for starting this plan – I look forward to the healing it will bring.
ARE PAIN AND DISAPPOINTMENT A DIVINE PRIVILEGE?
Dang. Day one and I have THAT to think on…
I’m guessing if you’re joining in this study, you’re hurting. Me too.
I’m glad we’re “sharing” this study and learning from Job together.
I never noticed that Job’s integrity is mentioned several times in the first chapters. Satan takes notice of it. And Job’s wife mocks it.
His regular practice is to honor and sacrifice to God.
While his integrity didn’t save him from pain in his life, Job’s regular practice of praising God DID carry him through.
Again, this is JUST DAY 1! Thank you She Reads Truth!
I’m sorry for your pain. I recently finished the book, “The Life You Always Wanted” by John Ortberg. In the final chapter he addresses trials and tests, making some pretty interesting points about how God only tests his devout followers. Only those in whom he sees the light of Christ does he deem capable of enduring the most difficult tests.
Not to assume that any and all pain is a test, but I’m thinking if you’re joining this study after experiencing any kind of pain… you’re likely being or have been tested by God—which means he sees something in you, as he did Job.
Thank you so much Jenny for sharing! I’m a Junior in highschool. And relatively a new Christian. It means a lot to hear people talk about God and that He has stuck with them through hard things
I know I don’t comment very often, but I feel like I learned a valuable lesson a few years ago while studying Job. I was going through a mysterious health crisis at the time, and while looking into all Job suffered I realized, it wasn’t about Job at all. Job’s suffering was a lesson to those around him, and to the accuser. Job remained steadfast and his character remained intact.
I’m not sure any of that makes sense, but to me, at the time, it did. What I was suffering, what I was experiencing might not be about me at all, but rather a lesson for someone else. Perhaps, my “medical mystery tour” was intended to teach my doctors something they would need to know. Or maybe the people around me needed to see me experience illness with grace. It comforted me to know that perhaps there was a bigger purpose to my weird health issues than just making me sick and tired.
I do not agree that suffering, or bearing illness is an honor or divine privilege. God’s presence is divine privilege. Healing and restoration is divine privilege. Sickness and suffering are part of the curse, and part of living in a fallen world. What is true is that even in illness and suffering we have a redeemer who lives, who will never ever forsake us and who always gives good gifts to His children.
Thank you for sharing this so beautifully. I, too have often thought this.
Thanks for the balance if that. I agree that sickness is a result of the fall and that the honor is that God’s presence is with us through no matter what we walk through on this earth! He uses what the enemy meant to harm us, and makes it work for our good!
Love this explanation
Wow thank you for this insight!
Love this!!!
I have recently been “abandoned” “discarded” by a man who I loved very much and yet who used speaking of God to manipulate and isolate me. I am just now entering healing through the most traumatic emotional pain. Today’s explanation of the privilege of pain is helpful, although hard to accept at the same time because I also believes God wants life abundantly for us and this pain and grief is not that, at the hand of a man who also claims to love the Lord and be saved. I think the hardest thing can be understanding how God’s children hurt each other and how we resolve that in our minds and hearts. Looking forward to more. Just as Job. Praying for each of you women in your pain of loss, as well. He truly holds all in His hand.
“Suffering” is a part of life because we live in a fallen world. Each of us suffers in some way – physically, emotionally – we are not where we want to be and our life is not the way we wish it was. The question is, how will we react to the things that happen to us? We are here to bring glory to our amazing God – to demonstrate to the world, seen and unseen, that He is good and loving and kind and joyful in the middle of everything we walk through. So each step of our journey is a privilege and a sacred honor. Abuse is something totally different. I don’t believe we are expected to stay in an abusive situation if someone is deliberately causing us pain . . but even in seeking a safe our attitude is one of bringing praise to God.
Whoa! What a tough read! Really but home! I’ve been suffering and healing from a huge infection that caused my c-section to open back up and have to heal from the inside out. I’ve been bitter and angry. Now I see I needed to have an attitude like Job!
Honestly, I became angry while reading this devotion. Suffering as a privilege, as an honor? In my opinion, such phrases only serve those people who make other people suffer and help disguise abuse.
Suffering isn’t just caused by abuse….it’s anything that we go through that we might find difficult. My husband passed away last year, and for me knowing that God is with me is so awe inspiring…it is an honour to serve Him, even in this season knowing that He is there for me and upholds me through this. I believe that’s where the concept of suffering being an honour and a privilege stems from. It’s not a get out card for abusers….they will face judgement from God unless they repent…and that’s another thing that can comfort us in times of trouble….that those who do evil will face God in the end.
PS. Remember Jesus said “There will be troubles, but take heart…I have overcome the world.” (My paraphrase, can’t remember which verse it is)
If it makes you angry might I suggest taking that to God and really praying over it? I think Lisa’s point in the devotional that “our pain is a great conduit for God’s glory” spells it all out. God can do great and mighty things for His kingdom from our suffering. While it is t pleasant on that moment, who knows what He’ll do with it on the other side. Yours could be the story of redemption someone else needs to desperately hear
I’m doing this study with my family and after I read the devotion I commented that it sounded really immature and everyone including my 12 year old agreed. I didn’t know the author but I guess they’re popular. I’m glad I’ve never read or be a part of whatever it is she does. About the abuse – Job isn’t being abused, life is horribly happening to him. I do think when people talk about suffering they are referring to things like that : tornadoes, car accidents, death, cancer, disabled parents, disabled children, etc. In James 1:2-8 we are told that preserving through trials and difficulties (different from abuse) will mature us spiritually and earthly.
I hope that helps.
I am so glad to be diving into Job again. Three years ago, when I was walking through my darkest times, it was easy to lean into God and know that He would make it all right eventually. And He absolutely did! So now life looks different as a full-time caregiver and I don’t always handle the hardships with grace. I forget that God is present here too, in this everyday, mundane type of struggle.
I would like to say this to Janis Duchnicki. The scarlet letter you feel you wear was washed from your person the moment you asked Christ into your heart. His shed blood has taken ever sin you & I have ever committed and buried it in the deepest part of the ocean. Leave it there! Job suffered because God KNEW that no matter what prevailed in his life he would never stop loving and serving our God. Think on that….God is Sovereign, He never leaves us to suffer alone, and the suffering we do strengthens us in Him.
Things that struck me: my own fear of suffering. Oh how I love my comfort! And the empathy (vs sympathy) of Job’s friends. They literally sat with him in pain. In silence. Because oftentimes in suffering, there are no good words. Only pain. And I hope to be a friend that weeps and cries aloud with my loved ones.
Amen to this..I have such a fear of any suffering and reading Job for the very first time is going to be a game changer I can tell! Being present in the pain of others..I hope I can be this kind of friend too
I love that Satan can not do anything to us without it passing through the hands of my Lord. Do I understand the “whys?”, of course not ….but I do understand that God is sovereign and every gut wrenching heartbreak and every tear cried will not be wasted.
My daughter introduced me to SRT years ago and I have been profoundly impacted each time I join in for a study, and I have shared posts and encouraged other to join in (male = HRT & female) but I don’t believe I have ever left a comment or reply.
I listened to your audiobook and laughed & cried alongside in your journeys. My biggest take-away was the “what’s in your cup?” in-home gathering and I’m praying about how I can be available to do something similar once we settle into our new home next month.
Today, I am joining in, linking shields, with other women all over the world to continue to seek Him and open myself even more to His desire for me to love well through SRT.
THANK YOU for believing that a LIMITLESS GOD could use limited you with your small, simple “yes” of a yielded heart and allowing Him to make something so beautiful!
I started to read Job as part of my 1 year daily bible plan. When received the email from Sheareadstruth that they were doing a study on Job, I quickly ordered the study guide in excitement. I am fascinated by Job and his suffering because I am too going through a season. This has allowed me to draw near to God and trust in his word. I lost my job a few months ago. I am a single mother and home owner and I have been receiving emails from the jobs that I have applied for saying we have went with someone more qualified. My faith is in a Sovereign God and I will continue to trust his perfect plan for my life. I am so thankful to be doing this study with you all.
I started to read Job as part of my 1 year daily bible plan. When received the email from Sheareadstruth that they were doing a study on Job, I quickly ordered the study guide in excitement. I am fascinated by Job and his suffering because I am too going through a sea
This makes me realise how much God is protecting me despite the challenges that comes my way , because if the devil is left to his own devises he would have taken Job’s life . He wasn’t satisfied with the first attack , he went back to negotiate for another and even that God warned him to spare Job’s life .
Therefore , in my struggles and challenges I have to remember God is still protecting at least some aspect of me . The devil knows that he can’t touch me because God is protecting me , see how frustrated he sounds. I have to deeply understand and walk in this truth that as a child of God the devil has no hold on me unless permitted . I would not be afraid , I would rejoice because God and I are in this together.
Oh , father work in me to transform me so that your can call me upright
Remember when Jesus said to Peter… “Simon, Simon, satan has asked to sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you. When you return strengthen your brothers.” It’s amazing that Jesus knew peter would deny him, and Jesus lives to make intercession for us. He knew Peter would return, he prayed for him and with confidence said… when you return, strength your brothers.” Peter was a major leader in the early church.
Thank you for this – I needed to hear it.
What struck me in starting this reading was the use of the term “the satan”, as opposed to the use of “Satan” (capital S), which led me to look up the meaning of the word. In my research, I found an explanation on thebibleproject.com that helped me make more sense of Job 1&2. Basically it gives the view of “God as the sovereign King over all creation,and that the “sons of God” are His subservient divine beings. It goes further to state that the Hebrew word satan is a descriptive noun suggesting that “the satan” might be viewed as “any person that stands *opposed to* or as an *adversary*”. This helped me to see that God did not give power to Satan to destroy Job’s family and everything he owned. God knew how Job would respond, but I wonder if “the satan” ever learned the lesson.
This is very interesting Laura, thank you for sharing ❤️
Thanks, Laura. I was curious about who “the sons of God” were and this helps.
Thank you for sharing Laura
This is so awesome! Thank you for sharing this! It really helped me!
I say I want to follow Jesus. Walk in His footsteps. Be like Him. How can I then “share in Christ’s suffering” unless I too suffer? The challenge is to view suffering as Lisa has so eloquently put it: suffering as “a divine privilege.” Lord, help me to graciously accept the gift that is in the disappointments, the hardships, the struggles and the suffering. You walk through the valleys with us. Your presence in the midst is the gift.
Wow! I hadn’t made that realization but that really puts it into perspective!
My understanding is that we can do all the things that Jesus did. He did all the things He saw God do, and we can do the same because we were meant to emulate Him. I and my church family intercede for others all the time. Ultimately, when it comes to forgiveness of sins, I think that the person as an individual needs to recognize and repent for their actions, but we can pray for them to come to that decision.
I don’t understand why God can’t stop suffering. Just because Job was a strong believer he had to suffer? It mind blowing, but isnt so much of Gods works that way? In my own journey I see others prosper and all I can think of is how my bad choices in life has lead to my suffering, and hiw shameful I feel. Publicly I feel like I wear a scarlet letter indicating the degree of my
I loved reading Job 2:10. It was the perfect reminder that even as God allows His followers to receive blessings here on earth. He does not safeguard us from suffering. He hand picks us for the bad situations because He knows we can bare it. He plans to strengthen us and He knows that there are beautiful days ahead of us after the storm.
One of the biggest takeaways from today’s reading is the fact that even when we go through struggles, heartaches, suffering, etc. God is on His throne!! He’s still in charge and sovereign, even though in our limited perspective things have begun to sink.
I am having a hard time understanding the pain and suffering. Where do I find joy when I have been given and then taken from. Why would God give just to take? God wants us his children to be happy and prosper yet we are robbed of that happiness when ehen we
Wow. The honor of suffering for the Lord. That is not my reaction when I am suffering
Earlier this year I read a book study on Job by Charles Swindoll. If you’re looking to go more in depth, I would highly recommend it! I love the perspective of seeing suffering as an honor to carry, knowing that God is enough for us in the suffering. Let that be my changed perspective in this season.
Job always strikes me as a powerful lesson in “control” — and how often I lean back into a transactional relationship with God. It reminds me that not matter how hard I try or how well I plan ahead, God is the true director of my life’s path, which means that I do not get to decide when the good and bad times come. I’m really looking forward to walking through Job again during this Lenten season!
It’s really comforting to remember that even Satan is under God’s control. He is not wildly out of control on this earth, even though it might feel like it, and can’t do anything without God’s knowledge and permission.
I started out 2019 with a goal of reading through the Bible. I started reading through the chronological reading plan in the You-version Bible app. I was surprised when right in the middle of Genesis it hops over to Job, then back to finish Genesis. I felt God leading me back to “sit” in Job a little longer. I have always tried to avoid this book b/c of the nature of Job’s story – I feel others pain deeply – this book would bring about feelings I wasn’t willing to face…until now. I see God in a deeper, richer way. When God led me back to “sit” in Job, She Reads Truth was on a favorite podcast of mine, “That Sounds Fun” with Annie F Downs, and it was mentioned that they would have a study of the Book of Job in March! Not a coincidence. I purchased the study book – which is beautiful – and have been SO excited to glean even more of what God has to show me through the Book of Job. Also, a book which is very much like a commentary of Job & has been very helpful along with this study is, “Let God Be God” by Ray C Stedman http://a.co/iEoq6JG. I purchased the kindle edition and use it along with this study – makes this journey through Job so rich & meaningful.
This reading and devotional hit home for me today. I pray that it is a help in my continuing process of grief since my husband passed away last year. God is with me in this season and every season, and I may not see it now, but His goodness is always the truth.
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I absolutely loved the challenge this text served! So many times we get dealt a rough set of cards and feel like God has forgotten about us or worse, we forget about God, but this reminds us that none of us are above suffering and just because you do go through a rough patch doesn’t mean God has forgotten about you!
Wow. This was on point and amaizng to read this morning
Curious…I’ve never thought of Satan having power over the forces of God’s creation, such as the winds that struck the sons house and the fire that fell from heaven and burned the sheep.
I’m so excited about starting this study. I wrote it on my calendar weeks ago and even though I was so tired from a night of kids up on and off I could not wait to come in to my chair and start this. Looking forward to it .
I have myself just walked through a hard season that felt divinely appointed at the same time. Satan is trying hard to frame it as a human-level experience. I’m praying that I’ll frame it has an honor as well as use it as a tool for connection and witness.
I have learned to look at tough seasons as opportunities to grow closer to God and see Him more, knowing full well it wouldn’t be easy and that days would exist I’d cry to the heavens. And in each season, the most recent one included, God has never ceased to amaze me. I read the account of Job and my heart aches for what he endured and I am humbled because I know some days I am not so gracious with my lot, good and bad and so it is my prayer that daily I walk out this journey fully committing myself and my experiences to God’s hands, praising Him in it all as an instrument for His Glory.
Several things jump out at me as read through the scriptures for today but one of them is when Job’s friends sat with him for days, no one speaking, just sitting together. How often do we try to use our words, or even actions, to “fix” a situation when really all that’s needed is a quiet friend? God is so good, even in the mess. He is the faithful friend. He takes the struggle and the ugliness and as only He can do, He makes it beautiful, shining in the light of His glory. I am thankful for Johns story because it gives us the hindsight to help us when we face the dark days.
This one is going to be hard. Which means I need it. Lord, open my spiritual eyes and ears and soften my heart to receive. Amen.
My favorite part from today’s reading was…because even our pain is a conduit for God’s glory. It helps me to remember that I didn’t choose to take this walk just for the reward but also for the opportunity to be changed through my relationship with God.
“Taste and see that the Lord is good.” I’ve been trying to see my circumstances through that lens rather than allowing my circumstances to define my view of God. God often leverages the pain in our lives to reflect His glory, and that is an honor!
I love this study! It is coming in on the heels of the “Study of Job- An Unlikely Story of Joy”by Lisa Harper that we are wrapping up currently. I had never thought to look for joy in this book and always viewed it as just an unfair situation against a person with impossible faith….but now I am seeing it is less about that and really about how God loves us enough to never leave us or forsake us and how He carries us through our suffering, even when we don’t realize He is there…I am so thankful that He cares enough for me to do this. One of the quotes she says in her study comes from a death row prisoner in Haiti that she has become good friends with who once told her, “ Lisa, when God is all you have left, you realize He is all you really need”! such truth in that statement…no matter what we loose, we can NEVER loose His love❤️❤️❤️
that’s a great perspective…it brings to mind what God’s word tells us in 2 Corinthians 10:5 about ‘capture EVERY thought ‘ and what it tells us in Philippians 4:8 when it says, ‘ whatever is love, pure, admirable….focus on those things.’. . IDK how we, as humans, are to focus on the good when we walk through the bad bc it goes against our nature to accept and endure suffering well, but thankfully our Father covers us with His grace and love and He will use that suffering for our growth and His glory if we allow ourselves to trust and obey♥️
Wow! My husband and I went through infertility and God put us on that hard, painful path but in only His glory brought us to our daughter through adoption. Her adoption was easy and quick. We got news of her two weeks after we were approved for adoption and she was born just a week after that. We are doing again 5-6 years later. We were picked, went to the hospital to get the baby…she changed her mind. It was the hardest thing we’ve ever been through. Now, for the 13th time we are being looked at by a birth mom. This time around is oh so painful and full of disappointment. But through it all God is good. What a study and at a time I need it most.
It’s easy to look at suffering in hindsight and see Gods purpose for it. I wonder now in my spiritual walk how I would handle suffering. I pray that faith and my heart be as strong as pure as Jobs .
I was thinking the same thing, Jillian. That is my prayer today!
This kind of sets my anxiety into a tailspin. I always think of God as Provider and Protector and had to ask “why” as I read about him handing Job’s family and livelihood over to Satan. Needed to stop and remember in everything He is good and merciful. Eager to continue this study.
I had a similar thought while reading the passage, thinking God and Satan were using Job. One thing that stood out to me, God continued to say “you may not harm him.” I think my biggest take away is we will all experience hardships in life, but God will not let Satan harm us.
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I have spent a lifetime trying to avoid suffering. I have realized that what i have saw as suffering is usually “uncomfortable circumstances ” or really not getting my WORLDLY needs met. All of this is usually based on my own fear. Fear that God wont show up. Fear that He doesn’t want to show up for me. Fear that I deserve to not get my WANTS met. What God is teaching me is that He is the keeper of Promise. He alone knows my needs. He promises to meet them spiritually, emotionally and physically. Even when i suffer loss, disappointment, pain and hardship He is extremely faithful. I once heard God tell me that His faithfulness is so much bigger than mine so I dont need to worry if i haven’t got enough. That took the responsibility off of me to think that God will only work if I had the right kind or amount of faith.
I am in this world not of it. Although we suffer for a while , this is not our home. That brings me so much comfort.
Through all the suffering God allowed Satan to inflict on Job, God set stipulations. “he is in your power, only spare his life” (1:12, 2:6). God sees our suffering and protects us in it.
Kimberly i have been where you are…and sometimes find myself in that place again when thinking about the past. God has shown me thru prayer and time that He uses all of our suffering to his glory. I know him as my personal savior who loves me in ALL.
I can’t even begin to say how completely perfect this devotion is for my life right this minute. My mom passes away a month ago after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Even though I knew it was coming it has been so incredibly hard. I miss her so much. But…oh, the sweet, sweet Presence of God. It has been overwhelming and more powerful than the pain and heartache. This devotion has given words to my greatest prayer during this time – that I would suffer well, as a child who is well0loved by her Heavenly Father. He has been so good and so present over the last month. I know that my Mom is healthy and whole and in the presence of Jesus. While I would love to see and talk to her one more time I would never want her to come back here. And I would trade what I have experienced and learned about God for anything in the world. He is a good, good, Father.
Have a blessed Monday!
Oh Kathy- I have walked through the valley of the shadow of death and will be praying for you. So glad that you are experience His sweet and tender presence. His grace truly is sufficient. ❤️
I am suffering from a combination of choices I made and prideful ignorance I had. Reading this makes me wonder if I’m just still putting myself at the center instead of the Lord. I want to take responsibility for my actions and find that I am now stuck in its my fault. Which some of it absolutely is! I cannot claim unfairness as in Job’s situation so haven’t seen it all as a test God sent that I failed. Maybe this reading was to help me gain some wisdom and eventually peace from the failure(s)…
Much love to you, Kimberly. I’ve been there, too. Praying for you this morning ♥️
I can absolutely relate to your comment. I feel as if my suffering is my own fault…. which in turn sometimes leaves me to feel sorry for myself like “I deserve this pain”… My desire is to turn this into strength and a chance to glorify Him in some way. In spite of my pain.
I am so far from Job. I trust in God. I rejoice in my salvation through Christ. I love God’s Word. I share my faith. But, when trials come, I lament over what is not fair. And if I am honest, I will admit that my trials are mostly trivial in the face of what many suffer. As I sit in the shame of that truth, I will embrace today’s verse and ready my heart with God’s help to worship and praise him in all circumstances. But even when I fail, I thank God that he does not abandon me but continues to love me and is with me always.
Thank you for that reminder
My first baby was stillborn and I also had a miscarriage. I grew up Catholic, and didn’t know much about the love of God or His Word from my time at that church. I was invited to go to a different church on the day of her burial. I was angry and thought the people were crazy. I wasn’t used to praising and clapping. One woman caught my attention. She was very pretty, looked like her life was perfect, and probably had money. I figured that is why she could sing and praise. (We didn’t have much money and ended up with debt back then.) I was angry at Him, and asked God why He would bring me here! That same woman came up to and told me that God told her to tell me to run to Him and not away from Him. I heard the Gospel that day and went quickly down the aisle. She became my friend. I found out that she had also lost a baby and had money and other problems. However, she had the joy of the Lord. She was a help to me during my grieving and learning about who God is. I have been able to help my friend that also had a stillborn baby almost to the exact day years later. I can help people, because I have walked that road and understand their pain. I wouldn’t have chosen any of this, but her death brought me to learn about who God is, what Jesus did, and learn and continue to learn from His Word. My daughter was molested by her step grandfather. It was awful and devestaing. At 5 years old, she told me. She said that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit told her in s dream to tell me. As she got older, she said that she went to bed one way, and woke up another. She always believed even when her friends had doubts as teens. She gave her testimony in Mexico at the drug rehab on a mission trip and at her youth group. Adults contacted me. One was in tears bc something happened to her. Another remembered what her grandfather did, and told me if your daughter can forgive and heal, I can too. Again, I wouldn’t have chosen this, but God can use our pain. There are more things I’ve been through, but I know I can show compassion or be a listening ear to help others. Our experiences shape us. If we don’t know pain, do we really know joy? This song talks about that: https://youtu.be/hl5GcRrJLyw
Wow!!! What a testimony! I was pregnant with my second baby in the fall and we lost her or him. It has been so so hard for us but like you said I can already see the Lord using my baby Selah’s life for His glory!!!
Somewhat off-topic, but I wonder what effect Job‘s prayer for forgiveness had. Spontaneously I would have said, that God doesn‘t react to our plea for forgiveness of other people‘s sins since everyone has to cope with their own sins. But then it struck me that even Jesus asked his father to forgive those who crucified him since they didn‘t know what they were doing.
Any thoughts on whether we should ask God for forgiveness on other‘s sins?
I don’t know the answer here but I love how Jesus asked for God to forgive them…and also am remembering how God has Job pray for his friends for speaking against Himself at the end of Job
We have to bring to mind the one thing that we have that Job did not. Forgiveness and promise of salvation through the death of Christ. Job lived many, many, many, years before Jesus came to die on the cross. He was a faithful man of God in his own merit during this time. We on the other hand have forgiveness through Christ and what He did for us. He took our sins, sickness, curses, anything that can separate us from God to the cross. However, we can only get forgiveness through conviction and salvation and that is an individual decision we each must make. We can pray for others that God will convict them of sin but only they can get the forgiveness through confessions to those sin. Hope this helps a little in your question.
Yes, I know that. This is why Job‘s prayer for forgiveness startles me. And yes, even Jesus‘ prayer for forgiveness was uttered before he died. But where these people forgiven because someone prayed for them? Perhaps God gave them consciousness of their own sin, I don‘t know. It remains a mystery though …
What a challenging read today..!
But so the truth of my life…
I lost my 27 year old daughter 14 years ago. My biggest heartache ever…
Unlike Job, I went to Gods house, stood at the altar for weeks and I fought, argued, accused God of many things including not being the God that I believed and had heard He was. You see when i found out she was dying i went to thst same house and asked for God’s mercy on my girl, for Him to take me and give her her life, so when she passed I blamed God, and in a ‘No holds barred’ tirade, through tears and a mother’s heart broken, I lashed out.. I did not take my daughter’s passing well. I Certainly did not have Jobs character in my circumstance!
But God..
Oh BUT GOD..
Even though I accused and shouted and was down right disrespectful to Him, He blessed me with a picture of where she was on one of those days when I had exhausted myself and fallen asleep on the pew..
He gave me a picture that I carry in my heart.
A picture that I know beyond my understanding, then, that it was from God.
God gave me HOPE. Hope to believe that though I grieve my beloved daughter was safe in His keeping til we met again in ETERNITY.
Job was a man of God. Who perhaps understood more of God and perhaps trusted Him. I was a lukewarm worshipper who did not really know Jobs God as well as he.. but I do now..!
Through my loss He has brought me close to Him, walked with me in my darkest hours, and continues to do so, He has given me HOPE and blessed me beyond beyond.
Thank you Lord God… thank you for hand that has scooped me up, comforted me, held me, provided for me.. thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul… Thank you Lord God for your presence.. always.. Amen.
Blessings this Monday morning dear hearts.. with love and prayers.. xxx
What a beautiful testimony, Tina. Thank you for sharing – so real, honest, heartfelt
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what a powerful testimony to the unending love our Father has for us that no matter what our limits as humans cause us to do, He still cares for us and loves. Thank you, God, for a love we could never imagine ♥️
This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your heart here!
I was brought to tears by your story today (like the sobbing kind). I am so sorry you lost your daughter. But how miraculous a story that you can testify to God’s goodness and faithfulness over you, despite such a great loss. Job’s story has always bothered me so much. It truly does defy everything we think is fair and right. But I believe your story helped me today to have a deeper faith in this God that I love, but often don’t understand. I am thankful God’s ways and thoughts are higher than my ways and thoughts. Thank you for sharing Tina. God bless every part of you.
Hi Tina,
Thank you for sharing this! I am 27 and my story has been maybe in some way the flip side of yours – my mum passed away five years ago. And yet, my story is also the same as yours! I lost myself again and again in grief and pain, and each time He found me at the bottom of the pit and brought me back – to a stronger and more passionate love of my Saviour than I can imagine. I am called to be a worshipper! He has set my feet on the rock, and restored my family beyond imagining, and continues to do so. Yet, in each new situation of life, I still sometimes fear the pain that might come. Job says ‘shall we accept good from the Lord, and not evil?’ Somehow that my faith rests not in the good things the Lord has done, even though they have been amazing… But in the Lord Himself… Doesn’t that just draw me closer, to curl up by Him and stay there forever? Wow. It’s such a hard thing that verse in some ways… But what a true and what a deeper thing.. Xxxxxxxxxxxx
I am honestly very challenged by this reading. Thank you for sharing this. I am looking forward to the next days on the plan.