“Then I would still have this consolation—my joy in unrelenting pain—that I had not denied the words of the Holy One” (Job 6:10)

He was blameless and upright. He feared God and shunned evil. That was God’s testimony about this old saint. Blessed abundantly with a beautiful family of seven sons and three daughters, Job had social status with lots of sheep, camels, oxen, donkeys and many servants for added economic power. Prosperity always brings respect when one holds themselves with dignity; and Job had lots of it in his community. More than anything else, God was proud of his faithfulness and integrity to the extent that He bragged about him to Satan (Job 1:8; 2:3). Satan challenged Job’s faithfulness as predicated on God’s protection (9-11). God opened Job to Satanic affliction. In an instant, Job lost everything – property and children. Yet, Job’s faith didn’t slip (13-21).

“Skin for skin!” Satan said. “Strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely curse you to your face” (Job 2:4-5).

With divine permission, Satan afflicted Job with painful sores (2:7). His frustrated wife encouraged him to curse God and die (9). Worst of all, his three friends who came to sympathize and comfort him turned to be the worst provocateurs that anybody could endure. Yet Job’s faith stood tall in the sovereignty of the Most High. Even if God allowed his death, Job said, “I would still have this consolation—my joy in unrelenting pain—that I had not denied the words of the Holy One” (6:10). His joy was in the most excruciating and unrelenting pain. What a man!

We moan and groan when afflicted. We complain and question God’s justice and kindness. Anger is not uncommon when we suffer, and many people walk away from God. We shut our ears and become resistant to “every-Jesus related topic”, as someone wrote to me recently. This man was angry, dejected, and isolated from the church, because he was going through some painful experiences. That’s why Job has become the quintessential example in suffering.

He knew God enough to reject any attempt by Satan to turn his heart against Him. He did not understand the cause of his problems, but he understood the reality of God and His sovereignty. Job’s faith in God did not depend on his possessions, family, or physical health. He knew enough to expect good as well as trouble from God (2:10). As Sovereign Ruler, God has chosen the crucible for His children’s refinement (1 Pt. 1:6-7; Heb. 12:7-11). It’s the saint’s path to glorify God in Christ (Jn. 21:19).

How do you face the storms of life? Can you worship God when disaster visits your home with pain and suffering (Job 1:20-22)? The truth is, God will not reveal the “why” until He receives glory in it, and you have been refined by it.

So, rejoice in your unrelenting pain; for when it’s over, you can trust God to delight your heart in a surprising way (Job 42:12-17).