Looking and Learning

O. T. #1110. "Looking and Learning"
Dec. 7, 2017
Job 1-Part 3


LET IT GLOW

The Accuser is claiming divine favoritism. He said that God built a hedge of protection around Job, his house, and all he has.
What protections/blessings did Job receive from God?
-his body from illness,
-his family from harm,
-his possessions from destruction,
-work of his hands was blessed,
-his possessions and fame were increased in the land.

Who wouldn't worship the God who gave all that? That was Satan's point.
But God stated that his servant Job was the greatest of all the men of the east. (verse3)
For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from sin. (verse 8)

You bring him down to the dirt like the rest of those humans have to live their lives, and You'll see what he's made of. He'll turn on You in a heartbeat! (Swindoll's wording)

The Lord said to Satan,"Behold, all that he has is in your power.  Don't take his life." (verse 12)
Satan purposes to destroy Job in hopes of disgracing God. We know that ain't going to happen.

Is there anything that could be taken from us that would cause us to turn from serving and worshiping God? Our health, family, job, possessions? Ask Him to show you what's in your heart, if anything, that is more important than He is to you.

LET IT GROW

In Swindoll's book, "A Man of Heroic Endurance," gives us 4 principles:
1. There is an enemy we encounter we cannot see...but he is real. He wants to deceive you, play tricks on your mind, weakening you, bring you down, and ruin your testimony as he destroys your life.
2. There are trials we endure we don't deserve, but they are permitted.
3. There is a plan we explore we will not understand, but it is best.
4. There are consequences we experience, we could not anticipate, but they are necessary.

Keep in mind: Nothing touches our life that has not first passed through the hands of God. He is in full control and because He is, He has the sovereign right to permit trials that we do not deserve. What is happening is a necessary part of our spiritual growth. Swindoll's

Will we accept it as necessary?
Will I look for the good this problem brings and develops in me through spiritual growth?

LET IT GO

Be on the lookout for Satan's tricks and temptations.
Even if I don't deserve what is happening to me, trust God through it all.
What am I to learn in
this?
Thank God for all His blessings and provisions and protection.