Read:
Have you ever watched a movie and cringed because you know what’s coming? The hero is about to walk into a trap. He doesn’t see it, but the audience does. Or the heroine is about to find out she has been betrayed by her best friend. She’ll be shocked, but we’ve known all along.
That’s what’s happening here. God gives us a glimpse of something the main character doesn’t know. Job is simply living his life—enjoying his family, his friends, his work, and his place in the community. By ancient standards, he’s incredibly wealthy: camels, sheep, livestock and many servants. Everything looks secure. But while Job goes about his day, a conversation is happening in the spiritual realm that he can’t see.
Scripture tells us that Satan is our accuser—that’s what the word satan means. In 1 Peter, 5:8, Peter warns us that the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. And in John 10:10, Jesus tells us that Satan comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.
The Bible reminds us that Satan’s time is limited. One day, God will bring him to final judgment. Until then, Satan is allowed to move throughout the earth and even appear before God.
That’s what we see in the beginning of Job: Satan approaching God. What’s striking—and comforting—is what happens next. God allows Satan to act, but only within clear limits. Satan can’t touch Job’s body. He has no authority beyond what God permits. God remains fully sovereign over all creation.
Does that give you hope? Nothing enters our lives without first passing through God’s hands. And as Paul reminds us in Romans, nothing can separate us from God’s love(Romans 8:28-30). He’s always at work, even when we can’t see how the story will end.
Pray: God, you are powerful, and your plans are perfect. When I can’t see what you’re doing, help me trust you anyway. Remind me that you are good, loving, kind, and in control, even in the moments that feel confusing or painful. Amen.