Job was attacked by Satan. His friends accused him wrongly, even though he did not understand all the implication of his suffering, he was convinced by God’s response that he had things under control. God indeed could do everything, including bringing comfort and assurance to Job. God eventually vindicated and prospered him. God proved that He is a just God who judges rightly.
Job remembered the words he had uttered in ignorance. Thereafter, he repented. He acknowledged God’s faithfulness and said:
• Surely, I spoke of things I did not understand, things that were too wonderful for me to know.
• My ears have heard of you, but now I see and know where you are in reality. Now, l am ready to accept your plan for my life even in suffering.
• Therefore, I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes. The expression “dust and ashes” is a symbol of humility and insignificance.
•Discuss the importance of repentance.
• How would you describe Job in the confusion of his misdeed?
• Discuss the importance of repentance to receiving help from God like the case of Job.
Evidently, the condition for restoring the fortunes of Job was based on Job’s forgiveness of his friends. His forgiveness was manifested when he prayed for his friends. Job’s wealth was doubled (v12). He again had children (v13). His daughters were the most beautiful in all the land. Evidently, Job became so prosperous after his suffering that he gave his daughters an inheritance and also his brothers. God is truly just. When our ways are right with him, even though it seems as if we are suffering and it tarries, we will sure be vindicated and restored like Job.
• Using Job as a case study, what counsel would you give someone who is suffering ?
• In difficult times, we should submit to God’s authority and rest in His love and care.
•God has a purpose in whatever He allows to come our way.
Sure, I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. Job 42 :17.
