The Book of Job Part 4

We have completed an evaluation of the book of Job. It is my understanding that not everything in the Old Testament is relevant in the New Testament, otherwise why have a New Testament? So, the question is, is there New Testament standing regarding what Job experienced? If not, then maybe we should let the old alone.


In the gospel according to Luke, chapter 22, verses 31,32, Jesus says, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to me, strengthen your brethren." Satan asked whom? He asked the Lord God for permission! What did Jesus say? Did He say "no, get thee behind Me Satan"? No, Jesus did not say that. He said that He had prayed that that Peter's faith should not fail (would not have said this if Peter did not already know), "and when you have RETURNED to Me, strengthen your brethren". He knew that Peter had to be willing to put action to understanding for himself. If Jesus did it for him, like a mom or dad who spoon-feeds a 12 year-old, he would not get it. Peter needed to get it. Peter needed to come to grips with what Jesus knew about him just as Job needed to come to grips with what the Lord knew about him!

Romans 8:16,17 consolidates it well. "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ if indeed we suffer with Him that we may be glorified together." Suffering with Him means He is directing the path.

Hebrews 12:5,6 reads, "and you have forgotten the EXHORTATION which speaks to you as to sons: My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives."

Verse 10,11 reads, "for they(human fathers) indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them but He for our profit that we may be partakers of His holiness. Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."

Sound like Job's and Peter's experience? It is your responsibility to seek your Lord's wisdom as to whether what you are experiencing in suffering is WITH Him or apart from Him. As you study, ask Him to differentiate between the two. He knows what you need to hear next, firmly positioning yourself on the Rock!