“You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is! But reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!” – Job 1:10-11
Yesterday, we introduced a Biblical character who has an entire book of the Bible devoted to him: Job. Now, Job was a righteous and rich man who had power and influence. He used both of these things for God’s glory as he was very faithful to the Lord.
However, because of his commitment to God, Satan wanted to interfere. His story goes like this: One day Satan said to God, “The reason Job follows you is because you’re so good to him.” The devil told God, “Stop blessing him and I’ll guarantee that he’ll turn his back on you and walk away in a heartbeat.”
In fact, in Job 1:10-11, the devil asked the Lord: “You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is! But reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!”
This is where the story gets interesting. Verse 12 goes on, “All right, you may test him,” the Lord said to Satan. “Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don’t harm him physically.” God was telling Satan, “Okay, I’ll play your little game… and we’ll see if Job passes the test.”
Over the next few days, we will continue to look into the story of Job. But I want you to stop and ask yourself this question: “Would I pass the test?” Maybe you have been blessed and fortunate that God has shown you great mercy. But would you be just as faithful if He took it all away?
Are you faithful because of the gifts or because of the Giver of those gifts? Our relationship with God should not vary based on what He has given us or blessed us with. If you have ever been in a strong relationship, whether it be an intimate relationship or even a friendship, you know a great relationship is built on unconditional love.
God wants the same. He wants you to love Him regardless of what you have. Would you pass the test?