Read James 5:11
You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. James 5:11
Many people have heard about Job and his trials, but not many people understand what those trials were all about and what God was trying to accomplish through them. Nor do they realize that Job suffered as he did so that God's people today might learn from his experiences how to be patient in suffering and endure to the end.
When I decided to write about Job, I said to my wife, "I wonder how much suffering we'll have to go through so I can write this book." Little did we realize the trials that God would permit us to experience! But we can testify that God is faithful, He answers prayer, and He always has a wonderful purpose in mind (Jer. 29:11).
You, too, may have to go through the furnace in order to study the book of Job and really grasp its message. If so, don't be afraid! By faith, just say with Job, "He knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold" (Job 23:10). God fears no fire. Whatever you have that is burned up and left behind in the furnace isn't worth having anyway.
As we study the book of Job together, I trust that two things will be accomplished in your life: You will learn to be patient in your own trials, and you will learn how to help others in their trials. Your world is filled with people who need encouragement, and God may be preparing you for just that ministry. Either way, I hope this book helps you.
Applying God's Truth:
What are some current situations you are facing that are causing you to suffer?
On a scale of 1 (least) to 10 (most), how severely would you say you have suffered in the past? What events have caused the most intense suffering?
What do you hope to discover as you go through the book of Job?
Devotions for Patience and Wholeness ©2005 by Dr. Warren Wiersbe. Used by permission of David C Cook. May not be further reproduced. All rights reserved.