Jesus Never Told Us To Climb Mountains

[Citizen of the Kingdom]

There were days in the beginning, and there was day and there was night. BOTH were GOOD, for all of creation was good, was it not.

What is a "spirit of fear"?

Is that what Job had?

I think the spirit of fear is fear of the unknown. Not scriptural by any means but my mom always used to say that there is nothing to fear but fear itself and in a way that's true. Knowing Christ in love does overcome the fear but never fading of the awesomeness. If that no longer remains then I would think that somehow conscience has been seared.

I think Job had every reason to fear what God allowed in his life for his instruction tho.

 

[Gregory Thompson]

Did Job have the "spirit of fear"?

Is/Was this "spirit of fear" EVER a good or desirable thing? Is it, or has it ever been Godly?

"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

"And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?" ~Job 1:8

When being in God's presence was a good way towards getting yourself killed . it most certainly was .
.
Romans 5

11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.


12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—
13 To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.
15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!
.
Because death reigned until Moses, fear was a deterrent so people didn't die. the law was a good thing . just as fear was . because what it replaced was worse . but what replaced the law and fear is only beneficial .. so going back to the egypt of the law and fear just doesn't make sense when God lives inside of us .

 

[Optimax]

There were days in the beginning, and there was day and there was night. BOTH were GOOD, for all of creation was good, was it not.

What is a "spirit of fear"?

Is that what Job had?

We will cover what job feared and its result.

Stay tuned.

 

[brinny]

When being in God's presence was a good way towards getting yourself killed . it most certainly was .
.
Romans 5

11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.


12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—
13 To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.
15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!
.
Because death reigned until Moses, fear was a deterrent so people didn't die. the law was a good thing . just as fear was . because what it replaced was worse . but what replaced the law and fear is only beneficial .. so going back to the egypt of the law and fear just doesn't make sense when God lives inside of us .

Is there a difference between fearing something evil (which is akin to "worshiping" it), and the "fear of the Lord" which also is part of worshiping God? Both are a form of "worship" and both involve "conditions of the heart". According to His Word, God is pleased with one and not the other. Why is that?

"The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life;" ~Proverbs 14:27

There is a book titled "The Joy of Fearing God" by Jerry Bridges. In it he describes and breaks down the "fear of the Lord" and how joy and wisdom are found like hidden treasures in the "fear of the Lord".

Is the "fear of the Lord" akin to a "fountain of blessings" and joy?

"And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land." ~Job 1:8-10

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." ~Proverbs 9:10

 

[brinny]

We will cover what job feared and its result.

Stay tuned.

lookin' forward to it

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE VIII

Young’s Literal Translation says;

Job 1:8
And Jehovah saith unto the Adversary, 'Hast thou set thy heart against My servant Job because there is none like him in the land, a man perfect and upright, fearing God, and turning aside from evil?' YLT

Satan replied.

Job 1:9
Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? KJV

The TEV says;

Job 1:9
Satan replied, "Would Job worship you if he got nothing out of it? TEV

The Satan starts his accusing of why he thinks Job serves God.

Job 1:10
Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. KJV

Job is protected and blessed by God.

The devil does not like anyone that serves God.

Especially if they are rich and keep getting richer.

Job 1:9 use of the word “fear”.

OT:4172
There are a few passages in which "fearing" seems to mean "being a devotee or follower." This usage could reflect either usages 4 or 5 above. Related substantival examples will be discussed below under y¹r¢°, , but possible verbal examples are found in Job 1:9 and 2 Chron 6:33.
(from Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. Copyright © 1980 by The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. All rights reserved. Used by permission.)

Notice in verse 10 that the devil had attempted to attack Job before this “staff meeting” mentioned in verse six.

Satan was aware of the hedge that protected Job from his attacks.

Satan had tried to attack Job.

Job 1:10a
Hast not thou made an hedge about him,

He hit the hedge.

Satan had tried to attack Job’s house.

Job 1:10b
and about his house,

He hit the hedge.

Satan tried to attack all that Job had.

Job 1:10c
and about all that he hath
He hit the hedge.

Job 1:10d
on every side

Then Satan tried to attack from a different side.

He hit the hedge.

Satan tried to attack from the other side.

He hit the hedge.

Satan hit that hedge so many times that he stopped trying.

Then Satan went to the staff meeting was complaining to God that Job was protected, therefore he could not attack him.

Then Satan accused Job saying that if it was not for the protection and all the blessings God gave him that Job would not serve God.

Satan was accusing Job of serving God because what Job got out of it.

Job 1:9
Satan replied, "Would Job worship you if he got nothing out of it? TEV

Satan, having tried to attack Job and could not, tried to get God to take away what He had blessed Job with.

Job 1:11
But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face. KJV

I am going to mention this now, but we will study it in detail later.

God is a good God.

There is no bad, evil in Him.

Satan is bad, evil.

There is no good in him.

For God to be moved by what Satan said would mean that God was easily offended, had something to prove, operated with malice.

Malice means (NT:2549)

1. malignity, malice, ill-will, desire to injure:

2. wickedness, depravity: wickedness that is not ashamed to break the law,

3. Hellenistically, evil, trouble:
(from Thayer's Greek Lexicon, Electronic Database. Copyright © 2000, 2003 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

That would make God with the same characteristics as Satan.

Let’s look at God’s answer.

God’s answer is taken by most that God actually gave Satan permission to attack Job.

If that was so, then God would have removed the hedge that He, God, had put around Job to protect him.

Let’s look at God’s answer.

Notice the Lord began His answer with the word “Behold”.

Job 1:12
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV

The word ”behold” is OT:2009

behold, lo, see. (ASV and RSV "if.") An interjection demanding attention, "look!" "see!" it occurs over a thousand times.
See also the shorter form,
h¢n

h¢n
is mainly used to emphasize the information which follows it,
(from Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. Copyright © 1980 by The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. All rights reserved. Used by permission.)

The word translated “behold’ means to “look!” “see!”.

Notice that The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament put exclamation points after “look’ and “see”.

God told Satan, “look!, see!.

Then God told Satan what to “look at and see”.

We will continue from here next time.

 

[brinny]

Thank you for delving into the "fear of the Lord".

Interesting that part of God's description of Job is "perfect" and interjected in the description is that Job "fears" God.

What i take from this is that Job "perfectly feared God" and that his heart was "perfected" because of it.

Another thought comes to mind, and that is, if a "perfect fear of the Lord" is akin to loving God with all one's heart, mind, soul, and strength?

 

[Citizen of the Kingdom]

Perfectly fearing God ... good description. I think satan was accusing Job of being a fed animal that was only in it for what he could get whereas God wanted to point out that mankind was more than that

 

[Optimax]

Thank you for delving into the "fear of the Lord".

Interesting that part of God's description of Job is "perfect" and interjected in the description is that Job "fears" God.

What i take from this is that Job "perfectly feared God" and that his heart was "perfected" because of it.

Another thought comes to mind, and that is, if a "perfect fear of the Lord" is akin to loving God with all one's heart, mind, soul, and strength?

As we go we will see more facts about Job and what Job said.

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE IX

God’s answer is taken by most that God actually gave Satan permission to attack Job.

If that was so, then God would have removed the hedge that He, God, had put around Job to protect him.

Let’s look at God’s answer.

Notice the Lord began His answer with the word “Behold”.

Job 1:12
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV

The word ”behold” is OT:2009

behold, lo, see. (ASV and RSV "if.") An interjection demanding attention, "look!" "see!" it occurs over a thousand times.
See also the shorter form,
h¢n

h¢n
is mainly used to emphasize the information which follows it,
(from Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. Copyright © 1980 by The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. All rights reserved. Used by permission.)

The word translated “behold’ means to “look!” “see!”.

Notice that The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament put exclamation points after “look’ and “see”.

God told Satan, “look!, see!.

Then God told Satan what to “look at and see”.

The Lord said “all that he hath is in thy power”.

Job 1:12a
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; KJV

The Lord told Satan “look”, “see” emphasizing the information which follows.

The information The Lord gave Satan was “all that he hath is in thy power”.

This statement from The Lord reveals that in the time since Satan’s last attempt to attack Job there had been a change.

A change that Satan was not aware of due to Satan’s continued failure at attacking Job because of the hedge.

When Satan “looked” as God said.

Satan saw that the hedge was partially down.

We can see that the hedge was “partially down” because Job was still protected from being attacked physically.

Job 1:12b
only upon himself put not forth thine hand. KJV

What was Satan’s immediate reaction?

When Satan looked and saw that Job was open to attack , he left to prepare his attack.

Job 1:12c
So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV
Notice again that in The Lord’s answer to Satan, there are no words used that give permission to the devil to attack Job.

What God said to Job was (in my words).

“Open your eyes and look and you would see that all Job has is in your power.

God did not say in any form that He gave the devil permission to attack Job.

We will see later what brought down the hedge, allowing the devil to attack Job.

When Satan looked and saw that Job was open to attack, he left to prepare his attack.

We learn in verse 13 when Satan’s plan for attacking Job was put into effect.

Satan attacked on a day when Job’s sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house.

Job 1:13
And there was a day when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house: KJV

Satan attacked on a day when Job’s children were partying because they were all together and could be attacked all at once.

Job was probably doing what he always did each day.

Having no idea of the attack that was coming or it’s scope.

A messenger came to Job and informed him that the Sabeans stole the oxen that were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, killed the servants, except for the messanger.

Job 1:14-15
14 And there came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the asses feeding beside them:

15 And the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. KJV

Satan allowed the messenger to escape so that Job would know of the attack.

Before the first messenger was through speaking about what had happened another messenger came.

The second messenger said “the fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee”.

Job 1:16
While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. KJV

Again, one was allowed to escape.

The “fire of God” was probably a lightning storm that started fires around the sheep leaving no escape.

Because of the statement made by the messenger “the fire of God” we need to mention a very important fact here.

The fact is this.

Job had no idea about the “staff meeting” which Satan attended.

Because Job did not know about the meeting.

Job also had no idea of the conversation that took place.

Therefore as we will see as we continue into Job’s story.

Job thought that God was giving him the problem.

Job did not know that Satan was attacking him.

Likewise with the guy that shouted “fire of God”.

Neither he nor Job was privy to the staff meeting.

While the second messenger was still telling Job about the burnt sheep and servants.

A third messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels (cattle, might have been some camels as well), and have carried them away, yea, and slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee”.

Job 1:17
While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have carried them away, yea, and slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. KJV

Here is a question for you to consider.

When Satan planned his attack.

He stirred up the Sabeans to steal the oxen, donkeys and kill the servants.

He stirred up the Chaldeans to steal the cattle and kill the servants.

Yet the devil did not stir up anyone to steal the sheep and kill those servants.

Satan burned them instead.

Why do you think he burned the sheep instead of stealing them?

We will continue from here next time.

 

[brinny]

you got me there....not sure why he burned the sheep instead of stealing them, except that maybe by doing so it added to the already devastating heartbreaks and losses that Job was experiencing...?

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE X

Here is a question for you to consider.

When Satan planned his attack.

He stirred up the Sabeans to steal the oxen, donkeys and kill the servants.

He stirred up the Chaldeans to steal the cattle and kill the servants.

Yet the devil did not stir up anyone to steal the sheep and kill those servants.

Satan burned them instead.

Why do you think he burned the sheep instead of stealing them?

Consider these two verses.

Ps 100:3
Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
KJV

Jer 50:6
My people hath been lost sheep : their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their resting place. KJV

“Sheep” is descriptive of God’s people.

Shepherds (Pastors, ministers) are descriptive of those who tend to them.

Satan hates God’s people.

Satan hates those who are called by God to minister to them, Pastors in particular.

Because of the devils hate and to “poke at God”,

He did not just have the sheep stolen and the servants tending them killed.

Satan had evil satisfaction in seeing them all burn.

Let’s continue.

Remember that messengers came to Job one after another.

Each arriving with their bad news before the one speaking had finished.

Job was increasingly being subjected to more and more pressure.

By the time Job received the last message about his sons and daughters.

Job was in an intense “pressure cooker” of a situation.

Ever thing Job had, except his wife, house, and house servants, including his children were gone.

All of this being told Job one right after another.

Job was hit, “WHAM”, “WHAM”, “WHAM”, “WHAM”.

All in a manner of a few minutes.

What was Job’s response?

Verse 20 says that Job arose, rent his mantle, shaved his head.

All of those actions were what people did then when under duress.

Watch this though.

Verse 20 also said that Job fell on the ground and worshipped.

Job did not curse God.

Job worshipped.

Job 1:20-21

20 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,

Verse 21 records what Job said.

21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. KJV

Remember that Job was not privy to the staff meeting and what occurred there.

Job did not know that Satan was the one that attacked him.

Job thought that the Lord had taken away all that he had.

The Lord does give.

The Lord does not take away what He has given.

How numerous are the times those words have been used to blame God for things that Satan has done.

I repeat that statement.

How numerous are the times those words have been used to blame God for things that Satan has done.

Job thought God took away.

But it was the devil.

However it is truly recorded in Scripture what Job said.

Job said “the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord”.

The Bible truly records what Job said.

Job thought it was true.

But it was not true.

Even though Job thought it was God, Job did not turn from God and curse him.

Job said “blessed be the name of the Lord”.

Job was wrong, but look at what God said.

God said that even though Job charged God with “taking away”.

God said that Job did not sin.

God also said that Job did not charge God foolishly.

Job 1:22
In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. KJV

How can that be?

We saw that Job did charge God with all that happened to him.

Job charged God for;

Stealing his oxen and donkeys.

Stealing his cattle.

Burning his sheep and the servants tending them.

Killing his children.

Yet God said that not only did Job not sin.

God also said that Job did not charge God foolishly.

How can that be?

We will pick it up here next time.

 

[brinny]

Job was, in essence, "bowing" to God in ALL of it. He was also saying that God is in CONTROL. ALWAYS. His TRUST in God remained, un-moved. He was acknowledging that God IS/WAS Supreme and that the bottom line is that only God can allow or dis-allow ALL that happens. His heart REMAINED steadfast in all of this.

And yes, it IS absolutely PIVOTAL that Job was un-aware of the conversation between God and Satan.

Remembering this is one of the "keys" to understanding the entire book of Job.

Amen, brother.

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE XI

Job 1:22
In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. KJV

How can that be?

We saw that Job did charge God with all that happened to him.

Job charged God for;

Stealing his oxen and donkeys.

Stealing his cattle.

Burning his sheep and the servants tending them.

Killing his children.

Yet God said that not only did Job not sin.

God also said that Job did not charge God foolishly.

How can that be?

God said that Job did not sin in all that he said.

God also said that Job did not charge God foolishly.

God said that because Job was walking in the light or understanding that he had.

That is what God expects from us as well.

God did not hold Job accountable or responsible for what he did not know.

Job did not know about the “staff meetings” that Satan attended.

Job did not know what was said I those meetings.

Therefore God did not hold him accountable.

God does not hold you accountable for what you do not know.

He expects you to walk in the light (understanding) you have as well.

However, there is a big difference between you and Job.

Today there is so much revelation of God’s word that is available to us that was not available to Job.

When understanding is available as it is today.

We are accountable.

We are expected to learn, ever increasing in understanding and walking (living) accordingly.

Let’s continue with Job.

Satan had destroyed all that Job had except his wife, house and his health.

Satan still was not satisfied.

Chapter two begins with another staff meeting.

Satan was at this one as well.

Job 2:1-3
1 Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them to present himself before the Lord.

The Lord ask Satan the same question as in the first meeting, “From whence comest thou”.

Satan’s answer was the same.

2 And the Lord said unto Satan, From whence comest thou? And Satan answered the Lord, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.

The Lord ask Satan again;

Job 2:3a
And Jehovah saith unto the Adversary, 'Hast thou set thy heart unto My servant Job because there is none like him in the land, a man perfect and upright, fearing God and turning aside from evil? and still he is keeping hold on his integrity, and thou dost move Me against him to swallow him up for nought!' YLT

However God does add that Job maintained his integrity.

The KJV continues in verse 3 with this statement that God made.

Job 2:3
although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause. KJV

That statement at first reading sounds like God had a part in what happened to Job.

Let’s consider that statement.

The phrase “although thou movedst me” is OT:5496.

The word means instigate, in bad sense.

2. instigate, in bad sense, with accusative of person, + B= against, 1 Sam 26:19; 2 Sam 24:1; Jer 43:3; Job 2:3;
(from Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon, Unabridged, Electronic Database. Copyright © 2002, 2003 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Barnes’ Notes says “The word rendered "movedst" cuwt means to incite, to impel, to urge, to irritate against anyone”.

[Although thou movedst me] The word rendered "movedst" cuwt means to incite, to impel, to urge, to irritate against anyone. The Septuagint renders this in a special manner, "And thou hast ordered eipas his property to be destroyed in vain" diakenees, that is, without accomplishing the purpose intended.
(from Barnes' Notes, Electronic Database Copyright © 1997, 2003 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Satan certainly did his best to incite God to attack Job.

Remember this verse?

Job 1:11
But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face. KJV

Satan was urging God to “put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath”.

In chapter 2 Satan urges God to move against Job again.

Job 2:4-5
4 And Satan answered the Lord, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life.
5 But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face. KJV

Satan accuses Job again saying the reason that Job maintained his integrity was because Job’s life was not threatened.

Satan continued his accusation saying that if Job’s health was threatened, Job would curse God.

God again said the same thing to Satan.

Look, see, he is in your hand”.

Job 2:6
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life. KJV

Nothing had changed in that the hedge around Job had been lowered allowing Satan to attack.

Again Satan left the meeting and went forth to attack Job again.

This time with “sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown”.

Job 2:7
So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. KJV

There is a difference though.

In Job 2:6 God said “Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.

Remember verse 12 in chapter one.

In Job1:12 God said “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

Job 1:12
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV

In Chapter One we saw that the hedge was lowered, but not totally down as Satan could attack Job but could not touch Job.

God told Satan “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

However in Chapter Two God said “but save his life”.

What caused the escalation?

What allowed Job to be attacked in the first place.

Second, why was the attack on Job increased in chapter two?

We will continue from here next time.

 

[brinny]

God did not hold Job accountable or responsible for what he did not know.

Job did not know about the “staff meetings” that Satan attended.

Job did not know what was said I those meetings.

Therefore God did not hold him accountable.

This is a crucial point to study on and understand regarding the entire book of Job, and a crucial point that is missed or skimmed over and not taken notice of. It is a pivotal "key" to understanding the entire book of Job and gives a clear-er picture/perspective to Job's perspective (and God's) in all of this.

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE XII

Nothing had changed in that the hedge around Job had been lowered allowing Satan to attack.

Again Satan left the meeting and went forth to attack Job again.

This time with “sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown”.

Job 2:7
So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. KJV

There is a difference though.

In Job 2:6 God said “Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.

Remember verse 12 in chapter one.

In Job1:12 God said “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

Job 1:12
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV

In Chapter One we saw that the hedge was lowered, but not totally down as Satan could attack Job but could not touch Job.

God told Satan “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

However in Chapter Two God said “but save his life”.

What caused the escalation?

What allowed Job to be attacked in the first place.

Second, why was the attack on Job increased in chapter two?

Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord and smote Job with sore boils.

What did Job do?

Did Job curse God?

Job took a potsherd to scrape himself with and sat down among the ashes.

Job 2:8-11

8 And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes.

Another question.

Why did the devil attack all that Job had including Job himself?

Yet Job’s wife, nor his house was included in the attack.

Perhaps at least part of the answer is revealed in verse 9.

Job’s wife was certainly a big help.

Instead of attempting to comfort Job or stand with him.

She said “ "You are still as faithful as ever, aren't you? Why don't you curse God and die?" TEV

9 Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die.

Remember when reading Job’s answer that Job is walking in the understanding that he has.

Remember that Job had no idea about the “staff meeting” the devil was at.

Nor did Job have any clue as to the conversation that occurred at that meeting.

Job’s answer again placed the blame on God for the calamities that had come upon him.

Yet Job did not curse God for it, instead Job received it because he thought it was God’s will for him.

10 But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

Job did not sin with his lips (because of what he said ), because Job was walking in the light(understanding) that he had.

Therefore God did not hold Job accountable.

Job’s three friends showed up.

11 Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. KJV

We wont deal with all that the three friends said and Job’s responses.

Way too much conversation to deal with line by line.

We will deal with the results of what they said.

Now back to these two questions.

What allowed Job to be attacked in the first place.

What caused the escalation?

Let’s consider what Job said in Job 3:25.

Job said that the thing which he greatly feared had come upon him, and that which he was afraid of had come unto him.

Job 3:25
For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me. KJV

What a statement!

What a revelation!

Remember when we first started this study.

I said that the information we received in the first few verses of Chapter One was given so we could understand why Job went through what he did.

What Job feared was revealed in Job 1:5.

Job feared that his sons had sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.

Job did that continually.

Job 1:5
And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually KJV

However when we, like Job are in the pressure cooker of life as Job was.

Other issues we have are brought to light, as was with Job.

What was the issue?

This issue that was brought to light is the reason the attack was able to escalate into an attack on Job himself.

Job had a issue with self righteousness.

That issue will be clearly brought forth as we continue.

Consider this statement by Job that reveals his attitude.

An attitude that God did hold him accountable for.

Job said that he would continue to trust God even if God killed him.

Job 13:15a
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him:

So far so good.

Then comes the bombshell!

Job then said that he would argue his ways before God, even to his face.

Job 13:15b
but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Job 13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. KJV

The AMP says;

Job 13:15b
nevertheless, I will maintain and argue my ways before Him and even to His face. AMP

Job thought that if he could get God to “discuss” things face to face that he could prove to God that he was right.

That would mean that God was to blame, not Job.

Do we ever think that?

Next time.

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE XIII

This issue that was brought to light is the reason the attack was able to escalate into an attack on Job himself.

Job had a issue with self righteousness.

That issue will be clearly brought forth as we continue.

Consider this statement by Job that reveals his attitude.

An attitude that God did hold him accountable for.

Job said that he would continue to trust God even if God killed him.

Job 13:15a
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him:

So far so good.

Then comes the bombshell!

Job then said that he would argue his ways before God, even to his face.

Job 13:15b
but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Job 13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. KJV

The AMP says;

Job 13:15b
nevertheless, I will maintain and argue my ways before Him and even to His face. AMP

Job thought that if he could get God to “discuss” things face to face that he could prove to God that he was right.

That would mean that God was to blame, not Job.

Do we ever think that?

If there was not an issue, Satan’s attack on Job’s would not have been escalated.

If there was not an issue, Job’s time of suffering would not have been extended.

If there was not an issue, Job would not have needed to repent.

We can see that Job repented.

Job said “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes”.

Job 42:6
Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. KJV

Lets consider some things at this point.

Job and his three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite conversed until everything they could say had been said.

Job 31:40b ends with Job running out of words.

Job 31:40b
The words of Job are ended. KJV

Job and his friends had run out of things to say.

Job 32:1
32:1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. KJV

Now we are about to hear from someone else.

A young man named Elihu had been there all the time, not speaking, but listening to all that was said.

Before we continue, let’s check out the credibility of Elihu.

If we go to Job 42:7, God said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath”.

Job 42:7
And it was so, that after the Lord had spoken these words unto Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. KJV

The Lord told Job’s three friends “take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job”.

Job 42:8
Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. KJV

Notice that The Lord said nothing about Elihu needing to do anything.

Elihu was not even mentioned by The Lord.

That is because Elihu “nailed” the situation.

Let’s see what Elihu said.

Elihu had not spoken at first because he was young and the others were older.

Out of respect, Elihu remained silent, listening.

Job 32:4-6
4 Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.

5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was kindled.

6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion. KJV

When Elihu saw there was no answer from Job’s three friends about Job’s situation Elihu got upset with them and Job.

Elihu was upset with Job because he justified himself rather than God.

Job 32:2-3
2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

Elihu was upset with Job’s friends because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.

3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. KJV
We are going to look at some of the main points of what Elihu said.

You can read all of it to see all of what Elihu said if you would like to.

Elihu said, speaking to Job, “I heard you say “I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me”.

Job 33:8-9
8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,
9 I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me. KJV

Job 34:5
For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment. KJV

Elihu rightly said “far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity”.

Job 34:10-12
10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.

Elihu said that “the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways”.

11 For the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways.

God will not do anything that is wicked.

12 Yea, surely God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert judgment. KJV

God does not pervert judgment.

Next time.

 

[brinny]

INHERITANCE XII

Nothing had changed in that the hedge around Job had been lowered allowing Satan to attack.

Again Satan left the meeting and went forth to attack Job again.

This time with “sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown”.

Job 2:7
So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. KJV

There is a difference though.

In Job 2:6 God said “Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.

Remember verse 12 in chapter one.

In Job1:12 God said “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

Job 1:12
And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. KJV

In Chapter One we saw that the hedge was lowered, but not totally down as Satan could attack Job but could not touch Job.

God told Satan “only upon himself put not forth thine hand”.

However in Chapter Two God said “but save his life”.

What caused the escalation?

What allowed Job to be attacked in the first place.

Second, why was the attack on Job increased in chapter two?

Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord and smote Job with sore boils.

What did Job do?

Did Job curse God?

Job took a potsherd to scrape himself with and sat down among the ashes.

Job 2:8-11

8 And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes.

Another question.

Why did the devil attack all that Job had including Job himself?

Yet Job’s wife, nor his house was included in the attack.

Perhaps at least part of the answer is revealed in verse 9.

Job’s wife was certainly a big help.

Instead of attempting to comfort Job or stand with him.

She said “ "You are still as faithful as ever, aren't you? Why don't you curse God and die?" TEV

9 Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die.

Remember when reading Job’s answer that Job is walking in the understanding that he has.

Remember that Job had no idea about the “staff meeting” the devil was at.

Nor did Job have any clue as to the conversation that occurred at that meeting.

Job’s answer again placed the blame on God for the calamities that had come upon him.

Yet Job did not curse God for it, instead Job received it because he thought it was God’s will for him.

10 But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

Job did not sin with his lips (because of what he said ), because Job was walking in the light(understanding) that he had.

Therefore God did not hold Job accountable.

Job’s three friends showed up.

11 Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. KJV

We wont deal with all that the three friends said and Job’s responses.

Way too much conversation to deal with line by line.

We will deal with the results of what they said.

Now back to these two questions.

What allowed Job to be attacked in the first place.

What caused the escalation?

Let’s consider what Job said in Job 3:25.

Job said that the thing which he greatly feared had come upon him, and that which he was afraid of had come unto him.

Job 3:25
For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me. KJV

What a statement!

What a revelation!

Remember when we first started this study.

I said that the information we received in the first few verses of Chapter One was given so we could understand why Job went through what he did.

What Job feared was revealed in Job 1:5.

Job feared that his sons had sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.

Job did that continually.

Job 1:5
And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually KJV

However when we, like Job are in the pressure cooker of life as Job was.

Other issues we have are brought to light, as was with Job.

What was the issue?

This issue that was brought to light is the reason the attack was able to escalate into an attack on Job himself.

Job had a issue with self righteousness.

That issue will be clearly brought forth as we continue.

Consider this statement by Job that reveals his attitude.

An attitude that God did hold him accountable for.

Job said that he would continue to trust God even if God killed him.

Job 13:15a
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him:

So far so good.

Then comes the bombshell!

Job then said that he would argue his ways before God, even to his face.

Job 13:15b
but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Job 13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. KJV

The AMP says;

Job 13:15b
nevertheless, I will maintain and argue my ways before Him and even to His face. AMP

Job thought that if he could get God to “discuss” things face to face that he could prove to God that he was right.

That would mean that God was to blame, not Job.

Do we ever think that?

Next time.

The interesting word here is "integrity", that came from of all places, the mouth of Job's wife....she despised Job at this particular time, yet, and even in the midst of her disgust with Job, her own mouth testified to Job's "integrity" without her intention to do so. What this indicates is that she was sorely disgusted and "fed up" if you will, WITH Job's "integrity". She was testifying to Job's righteousness, that he was and remained a "Godly" man, and "righteous before God". She was saying "it's not worth it". She, in essence, despised and hated her righteous husband and his God.

On another note, Job KNEW in the deepest recesses of his heart, mind, and soul, that GOD and ONLY God can "allow" what happens to us. That only GOD has the power to give and to take away. He was not "blaming" God, he was, in the midst of his inexplicable pain and suffering, giving acknowledgment to WHO is the God Most High and that there is NO OTHER. hE was testifying in other words to WHO "controlled" his own life and circumstances, and that NOTHING could touch him or approach him without God's "say-so".

The point you make IS a crucial one, and pivotal in understanding the entire book of Job, and that is, that Job was not aware of God's conversation with Satan. He was "blind-sided" through ALL of these events and tragedies that slammed him one-after-the-other.

 

[brinny]

INHERITANCE XIII

This issue that was brought to light is the reason the attack was able to escalate into an attack on Job himself.

Job had a issue with self righteousness.

That issue will be clearly brought forth as we continue.

Consider this statement by Job that reveals his attitude.

An attitude that God did hold him accountable for.

Job said that he would continue to trust God even if God killed him.

Job 13:15a
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him:

So far so good.

Then comes the bombshell!

Job then said that he would argue his ways before God, even to his face.

Job 13:15b
but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Job 13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. KJV

The AMP says;

Job 13:15b
nevertheless, I will maintain and argue my ways before Him and even to His face. AMP

Job thought that if he could get God to “discuss” things face to face that he could prove to God that he was right.

That would mean that God was to blame, not Job.

Do we ever think that?

If there was not an issue, Satan’s attack on Job’s would not have been escalated.

If there was not an issue, Job’s time of suffering would not have been extended.

If there was not an issue, Job would not have needed to repent.

We can see that Job repented.

Job said “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes”.

Job 42:6
Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. KJV

Lets consider some things at this point.

Job and his three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite conversed until everything they could say had been said.

Job 31:40b ends with Job running out of words.

Job 31:40b
The words of Job are ended. KJV

Job and his friends had run out of things to say.

Job 32:1
32:1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. KJV

Now we are about to hear from someone else.

A young man named Elihu had been there all the time, not speaking, but listening to all that was said.

Before we continue, let’s check out the credibility of Elihu.

If we go to Job 42:7, God said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath”.

Job 42:7
And it was so, that after the Lord had spoken these words unto Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. KJV

The Lord told Job’s three friends “take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job”.

Job 42:8
Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. KJV

Notice that The Lord said nothing about Elihu needing to do anything.

Elihu was not even mentioned by The Lord.

That is because Elihu “nailed” the situation.

Let’s see what Elihu said.

Elihu had not spoken at first because he was young and the others were older.

Out of respect, Elihu remained silent, listening.

Job 32:4-6
4 Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.

5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was kindled.

6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion. KJV

When Elihu saw there was no answer from Job’s three friends about Job’s situation Elihu got upset with them and Job.

Elihu was upset with Job because he justified himself rather than God.

Job 32:2-3
2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

Elihu was upset with Job’s friends because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.

3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. KJV
We are going to look at some of the main points of what Elihu said.

You can read all of it to see all of what Elihu said if you would like to.

Elihu said, speaking to Job, “I heard you say “I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me”.

Job 33:8-9
8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,
9 I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me. KJV

Job 34:5
For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment. KJV

Elihu rightly said “far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity”.

Job 34:10-12
10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.

Elihu said that “the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways”.

11 For the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways.

God will not do anything that is wicked.

12 Yea, surely God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert judgment. KJV

God does not pervert judgment.

Next time.

There is a verse that is the "key" to what the entire book of Job is about. It's repeated, for emphasis. And it is from the very mouth of God Himself.

*Note: Job was not "self righteous".

 

[Optimax]

INHERITANCE XIV

Elihu was upset with Job because he justified himself rather than God.

Job 32:2-3
2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

Elihu was upset with Job’s friends because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.

3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. KJV
We are going to look at some of the main points of what Elihu said.

You can read all of it to see all of what Elihu said if you would like to.

Elihu said, speaking to Job, “I heard you say “I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me”.

Job 33:8-9
8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,
9 I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me. KJV

Job 34:5
For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment. KJV

Elihu rightly said “far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity”.

Job 34:10-12
10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.

Elihu said that “the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways”.

11 For the work of a man shall he render unto him, and cause every man to find according to his ways.

God will not do anything that is wicked.

12 Yea, surely God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert judgment. KJV

God does not pervert judgment.

Elihu continued speaking.

Job 34:34-37

34 Any sensible person will surely agree; any wise man who hears me will say

35 that Job is speaking from ignorance and that nothing he says makes sense.

36 Think through everything that Job says; you will see that he talks like an evil man.

37 To his sins he adds rebellion; in front of us all he mocks God. TEV

Job 35:1
35:1 It is not right, Job, for you to say that you are innocent in God's sight, TEV

Elihu continued and finished in Job Chapter 37.

When Elihu was finished speaking.

God was ready to deal with Job.

God answered Job out of a whirlwind.

Job 38:1
38:1 Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, KJV

The Lord asked Job many questions.

Job, of course, could answer none of them.

Finally in Chapter 40, God ask Job “Shall he who would find fault with the Almighty contend with Him? He who disputes with God, let him answer it”.

Job 40:2-6

2 Shall he who would find fault with the Almighty contend with Him? He who disputes with God, let him answer it.

Job was finally “getting it” and started admitting it.

3 Then Job replied to the Lord:

4 Behold, I am of small account and vile! What shall I answer You? I lay my hand upon my mouth.
5 I have spoken once, but I will not reply again — indeed, twice [have I answered], but I will proceed no further.

Just for good measure the Lord ask Job a few more questions.

6 Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, saying, AMP

God told Job that if he was going to question the manner of God’s rule to dress himself “with the excellency and dignity [of the Supreme Ruler, and yourself undertake the government of the world if you are so wise], and array yourself with honor and majesty”.

Job 40:10
[Since you question the manner of the Almighty's rule] deck yourself now with the excellency and dignity [of the Supreme Ruler, and yourself undertake the government of the world if you are so wise], and array yourself with honor and majesty. AMP

God then continued to ask Job questions through the end of Chapter 41.

Job could not answer the questions.

By now Job was fully repentant and said to God.

Job 42:6
Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. KJV

Then God turned His attention to Job’s three friends.

The Lord instructed Eliphaz the Temanite to take seven bullocks and seven rams and offer a burnt offering and Job would pray for them.

Job 42:7-10
7 And it was so, that after the Lord had spoken these words unto Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.

8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.

They did as they were instructed.

9 So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the Lord commanded them: the Lord also accepted Job.
When Job repented and prayed for his friends as The Lord instructed.

Job’s captivity was turned and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.

10 And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. KJV

There is more for us to learn from Job.

We will continue next time.