There was a man ...

There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. (Job 1:1 KJV)

There are some current religious movements that tell us if we follow their precepts, if we pray specific prayers, if we name it and claim it, if we expect prosperity – God will treat us differently, showering with blessings of worldly goods. It appears from this first verse that Job would fall into this category – he was blessed with material substances and a large family. He was perfect and upright.

God did not remove Job’s worldly goods, but He allowed it. God did not destroy Job’s children, but He allowed it.

I find it difficult to follow who is speaking within the subsequent scriptures. Job’s wife and friends often sound logical in their discussions, too. But there is no doubt when we reach chapter 38:

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? (Job 38:1-2 KJV)

Job essentially is told to pull his pants up and act like a man. God is about to explain – as far as God will.

Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. (Job 38:4 KJV)

Preachers do a good job when they preach the gospel, giving the congregation God’s word. We’re told their feet are beautiful: And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (Romans 10:15 KJV)

We are told what to do when they do not preach God’s word: For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. (2 Corinthians 11:4 KJV) But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. (Galatians 1:8 KJV)

Part of the preacher’s job is to help us understand that God cannot be explained, as Job came to know: therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. (Job 42:3b KJV)

Paul says the same thing – but adds the promise that one day we shall know: For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (1 Corinthians 13:12 KJV)

He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20 KJV)