We might as well put the sign on our own backs that says , “ Kick me !” To write about suffering is to invite the enemy to test me in suffering . Who wants that ? As my children used to say , “ 1-2-3 not me .” Yet as we are discussing the life and lesson of Job , we see in him a man who has become our example for enduring human suffering . Likewise , in speaking of the coming of Yeshua our Messiah , Isaiah 53:3 foretells that ,
He was despised and rejected by men , a man of sorrows , acquainted with grief , One from whom people hide their faces . He was despised , and we did not esteem Him . If we follow Yeshua , we are likewise reminded that we will be “ despised and rejected ” whereas Yeshua told us in John 15:18 that “ If the world hates you , know that it has hated Me before you .”
Not one of these accusations were true ! In light of the days in which we live , we must all be willing to prepare to suffer for His sake . In 1 Peter 4:12 instructs , “ Loved ones , do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal taking place among you to test you — as though something strange were happening to you . Instead , rejoice insofar as you share in the sufferings of Messiah , so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be glad . If you are insulted for the name of Messiah , you are fortunate , for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you .
Job suffered the loss of both his wealth and his family , yet he maintained his integrity and did not open his mouth . Then , the injury of false accusation by friends added to his pain . Eliphaz thus accused him falsely , saying ,
“ For you took pledges from your brothers for no reason ; you stripped the naked of their clothing . You gave the weary no water to drink and from the hungry you withhold bread … You sent widows away empty-handed and crushed the arms of orphans . That is why snares surround you , and why sudden fear terrifies you .” ( Job 22:6 ) Yes , “ may the Spirit of glory and of God rest on us all .” Now and forever , in Yeshua ’ s name and for the sake of His kingdom . Amen .
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