A review for those with short memories

 Part 13

Gentle Reader,

Without a doubt as we look around at our (corporate) situation. We see just chaos! Which reminds me of the Kingston Trio and a song called the merry minute "They're rioting in Africa. They're starving in Spain. There's hurricanes in Florida, and Texas needs rain.

The whole world is festering with unhappy souls. The French hate the Germans, the Germans hate the Poles.

Italians hate Yugoslavs, South Africans hate the Dutch. And I don't like anybody very much!

But we can be tranquil and thankful and proud, for man's been endowed with a mushroom-shaped cloud.

And we know for certain that some lovely day, someone will set the spark off... and we will all be blown away.

They're rioting in Africa. There's strife in Iran. What nature doesn't do to us... will be done by our fellow man."

But what is even worse Gentle Reader, is that you having some sort of melt down even as I write or if not going on it’s coming I think it was that great philosopher Yoga Berra who said "Things are dark before they get black.

Our representive human JOB is once on top of the world Rich, famous, "good looking" everything thing going for him only to have the bottom fall out of hiw little world and find everything he valued was lost (stolen from him) Now here's the rub is that JOB was God fearing man, not the run of the mill scumb bag that we watch parade across the news each night. He wasn’t like the woman who sells her children for sex. Or that crooked politico who buys favors to dispense to the people who do his bidding. Job is not even a "religious " person who trades on the lives of others for his own pleasure. Job is everyman (just plain old JOB) [no pun intended] But when he cries out "Why God has this happen to me?" Along come 3 friends who while perhaps mean well give more hurt that help. Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar who I have nicknamed the 3 stooges! "Job, You know what your trouble is..." and they begin to heap fault after fault and lay these sins at Job’s feet. Quite like the hebetudinous minister who blamed the Hurricane Katrina on the impending "Gay Pride" parade that was to be held in New Orleans!

And Job cries out and protests his innocency for that which he is blamed. Please note Gentle Reader, that Job does not claim to be sinless! But he does protest that he has done nothing to warrant his lost of his children, and all of his rich possessions. "Oh that I would have a mediator between Me and GOD" Job cries and so On the scene is the youngest silent up to this point Elihu who will bring us up to date.

Next time....

Love,

Denis

 

Job study Chapter 34

 

Gentle Reader, Part 12

Yes, I know your thinking "This is a Mini Study?" Gentle Reader, It’s taken me over more years than many of you have been alive to get to where I am now in understanding the Bible those who are illiterate in the study of great books are the ones that give you sound bites.

"We must not believe the many, who say that only free people ought to be educated, but we should rather believe the philosophers who say that only the educated are free" Epictetus [Greek philosopher associated with the Stoics, AD 55-c.135]

I am at once reminded of my first Bible Teacher Joe Watkins who started a new study of the Gospel of John, it was shortly after that I was called to my first charge (church) and after 3 years my wife and I got back for a visit Joe was just beginning verse 2 on the First Chapter! So if your thinking that I am taking a long time on this wee study that I call "Why to Bad things happen to Good people" just remember that I am rushing through this book like a locomotive before those who have the attention span of a 30 second commercial flip over to "you tube" to watch some mind numbing nescient trying to get your attention.

It’s rather like trying to get information about the potential presidential candidate. When all we can get is a media blitz on Rev. Wright who like every other American is entitled to his opinion. What was overlooked in the mad scramble was that much of what Rev. Wright had to say (in sound bites) was totality accurate! Taking the land from Native Americans, the enslavement of the Blacks to name just a few. While I do not ascribe to Black Liberation Theology,  I at least understand it But to have an intelligent discussion would require that the "news" people have a qualified Theologian ( and you know I wasn't contacted). While the Media Circus tries to promote more hatred to get people to watch "As the Stomach turns T.V. News " Each channel has so called "Experts" who parse every word to catch someone misstating themselves. Well I have taken up my allotted time to write today so if you are wanting to know how this book ends you just have to see below .... Sorry about that.

Elihu argument is that God’s Government besides being sovereign and gracious (as in Chapter 33) must of necessarily be absolutely righteous and impartial (verse 10-19 ) [ Note the perception and insight of the writer, and compare that with what is taught today in the understanding of Christian people]"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.

For the work of a man will he render unto him, And cause every man to find according to his ways.

Yea, of a surety, God will not do wickedly, Neither will the Almighty pervert justice.

Who gave him a charge over the earth? Or who hath disposed the whole world?

If he set his heart upon himself, [If] he gather unto himself his spirit and his breath;

All flesh shall perish together, And man shall turn again unto dust.

If now [thou hast] understanding, hear this: Hearken to the voice of my words.

Shall even one that hateth justice govern? And wilt thou condemn him that is righteous [and] mighty?-

[Him] that saith to a king, [Thou art] vile, [Or] to nobles, [Ye are] wicked;

That respecteth not the persons of princes, Nor regardeth the rich more than the poor; For they all are the work of his hands."

 [We still see men trying to advise God how to deal with things] It is also perferct in it’s discernment (verse 23 ) "For he needeth not further to consider a man, That he should go before God in judgment." which makes quite superfluous Job’s demand for an audience with God, [ I used to joke about if only God would call me , collect] in which to state his case . God knows all the facts absolutely. Special trial is unnecessary. It is just because of this that some of God’s doings seem so mysterious (verses 24-26 ) He breaketh in pieces mighty men [in ways] past finding out, And setteth others in their stead.

Therefore he taketh knowledge of their works; And he overturneth them in the night, so that they are destroyed.

He striketh them as wicked men In the open sight of others;

Yet Gentle readers, God’s ways are always with good moral purpose aaccording to Elihu (verse 27-30 ) "Because they turned aside from following him, And would not have regard in any of his ways:

So that they caused the cry of the poor to come unto him, And he heard the cry of the afflicted.

When he giveth quietness, who then can condemn? And when he hideth his face, who then can behold him? Alike whether [it be done] unto a nation, or unto a man:

That the godless man reign not, That there be none to ensnare the people."

And so Elihu moves to the final development of his answer to Job in Chapters 36 and 37 Which we’ll take up next.

 Love Denis

The Twilight Zone

Been there done that? 

Part 11 [mini study on Job]

Gentle reader,

welcome to the twilight zone do da do da........

We have been looking at one man’s experiences (Job) to see if we can uncover the reason that the Bible has begun with this as the first book written (I know your thumbing through your old beat up Bible just to see where it is placed and why I would make such a ridiculous claim. Well Gentle Reader, that tells me quite a bit about you If your thumbing through your bible and your talking to your monitor screen(your a newbie, that is to say that my readership will increase by your joining who show up each day to get fresh Irish coffee and my world famous Irish Cream cheese muffins! Pass another one please ! Or your are looking to prove me wrong. Which I welcome by the way.

The 4^th man Elihu we have said provides a new approach (isn’t that always the way)? After the 3 stooges Larry, Curly, and Mo have taken their turn in trying to prove Job had done something wrong. Elihu, presented a new approach. That is Elihu claims a special inspiration for God (New I believe that if you had a special revelation for God you wouldn’t waste it on some poor old camel jockey but you would be should shouting it from the house tops. The three stooges wanted to be judges (I have seen more people in and out of churches who want to tell you what is wrong with your life haven't you?) Elihu wanted to be a brother. He woud sit with Job in the fellowship of human sympathy, yet at the same time speak with "real" truth from God’s side. Such was the new approach.

Elihu provides a new Answer.

Elihu’s answer reaches full completion in chapter 36 and 37 but first you need to see what leads up to that.

God is greater than man, and therefore man has no right or authority to require an explanation of Him Behold, I will answer thee, in this thou art not just; For God is greater than man.

Why dost thou strive against him, For that he giveth not account of any of his matters? Chapter 33:12-13.

There must be Elihu reasons a necessity for some things which God does that are incomprehensible to man. Yet God does speak to men if they will but listen (verse 14-16) For God speaketh once, Yea twice, [though man] regardeth it not.

In a dream, in a vision of the night, When deep sleep falleth upon men, In slumberings upon the bed;

Then he openeth the ears of men, And sealeth their instruction, with a view to restraining and rescuing them from evil (verses 17-1 That he may withdraw man [from his] purpose, And hide pride from man;

He keepeth back his soul from the pit, And his life from perishing by the sword. Moreover God not only speaks I have heard it said the God shouts in your pleasure, speaks in your pensive time and whispers in your pain! God also chastises (verses 19-20) He is chastened also with pain upon his bed, And with continual strife in his bones;

So that his life abhorreth bread, And his soul dainty food.

And this if only there one to interpret it, it is always with a view of healing and restoring men. (Verse 23-2 If there be with him an angel, An interpreter, one among a thousand, To show unto man what is right for him;

Then [God] is gracious unto him, and saith, Deliver him from going down to the pit, I have found a ransom.

His flesh shall be fresher than a child`s; He returneth to the days of his youth.

He prayeth unto God, and he is favorable unto him, So that he seeth his face with joy: And he restoreth unto man his righteousness.

He singeth before men, and saith, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, And it profited me not:

He hath redeemed my soul from going into the pit, And my life shall behold the light. This covers what Job is going through, the very experiences through which job finds that he a passing. Remember Gentle reader my favorite Bible verse Ruth 1:1 "Now it came to pass" It didn’t come to stay. Every has a end to it. It’s built into the system the worst storm has an end!

What Job lacked was an interpreter; and it seems clear that Elihu considers hinself the required interpreter (verses 29-33) Lo, all these things doth God work, Twice, [yea] thrice, with a man,

To bring back his soul from the pit, That he may be enlightened with the light of the living.

Mark well, O Job, hearken unto me: Hold thy peace, and I will speak.

If thou hast anything to say, answer me: Speak, for I desire to justify thee.

If not, hearken thou unto me: Hold thy peace, and I will teach thee wisdom. Job’s suffering is educational (according to Elihu) God is dealing with Job on some higher issue. That is in Chapter 33 and obviously it touches a higher level that the other speeches.

Which we will consider if God permits.

So think about the worst thing in your life Gentle Reader and then ask your self "Is it still going on?"

As bad as things have happened to me and Marsha things chamge.

By the way go out and rent a movie with Don Ameche and Joe Mantegna called "Things Change" You’ll love it!

Till next time

Love, Denis

Job Troubles

Hungy?

Gentle reader,

Like most men (even as a little boy) my eyes are always bigger than my stomach! ( All in Unison- "Duh, Denis we already knew that!" ).

Well as per usual I manage to take on more that one ordinary man can handle. This blog is my main squeeze as it were . The web site Http://www.studiesinscripture.bravehost.com takes care of it self as I have many more qualified people who look in from time to time ands add or move around or delete studies. That is "Scripture Institute" where you can get a full course meal for free! On the other side of the world is a mirror site called Heart to Heart http://parsontoperson.blogspot.com just in case you missed something here (but beware Gentle Reader not everything you read here is always there and vice versa) Then I have started a blog on a another site called http://www.mychurch.org where you can study with me in the book of Revelation or the Apocalypse. Which deals with what is called Eschatology or the study of future things sometimes it is considered the "End times studies " or as I like to say "What in the world will happen next" I have also other writings on the "Net" but to be truthful Gentle Reader" not having a church or a place to speak and I have a lot of time to think (that a "dangerous combination") . You’re my favorite place to come where one can let their down and sit back have a cup of coffee , an Irish cream cheese muffin and just talk about whatever comes to mind.

Here today we are trying currently to get a hold of the book of Job the Bibles version of the popular book "Why do bad things happen to good people?" We are now looking at a young man called Elihu (a very smart young man I might add. Elihu accepts Job’s position that any true wisdom comes from man comes by inspiration from God, and he is not convinced that wisdom is not given only to the aged "It is not the great that are wise, Nor the aged that understand justice." (Job 32:9). There is "a spirit in man" capable of receiving inspiration verse 8 " But there is a spirit in man, And the breath of the Almighty giveth them understanding." and Ehihu believes that he himself is now receiving such inspiration "The Spirit of God hath made me, And the breath of the Almighty giveth me life. (Chapter 33:4) [Also see 36:2-4] "Suffer me a little, and I will show thee; For I have yet somewhat to say on God`s behalf.

I will fetch my knowledge from afar, And will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.

For truly my words are not false: One that is perfect in knowledge is with thee." But more than this, Elihu believes that he is so inspired as to fulfil job’s longing for a daysman = umpire, arbiter, or mediator ( a daysman is one who speaks on another’s behalf) between God and himself, to whom he could set out his case. In pathetic desperation job had lamented the lack of such a daysman (Chapter 9:33) and his own inability to gain an interview with God "My words [shall utter] the uprightness of my heart; And that which my lips know they shall speak sincerely.

The Spirit of God hath made me, And the breath of the Almighty giveth me life.

If thou canst, answer thou me; Set [thy words] in order before me, stand forth.

Behold, I am toward God even as thou art: I also am formed out of the clay.

Behold, my terror shall not make thee afraid, Neither shall my pressure be heavy upon thee. (Chapter 33:3-7) and in fact Job’s last words before Elihu breaks in are (Chapter 31: 35-37) "Oh that I had one to hear me! (Lo, here is my signature, let the Almighty answer me); And [that I had] the indictment which mine adversary hath written!

Surely I would carry it upon my shoulder; I would bind it unto me as a crown:

I would declare unto him the number of my steps; As a prince would I go near unto him."

Gentle reader, I feel we must stop at this point (you have other things to do and besides before we look at Elihu’s remarkable speech I want you to consider this "What if God were to send down someone to explain why things are going so bad for you,? Would you listen to him or her? Or would you believe that they had been sent by God the ELOHIM = Creator of heaven and earth. What would you do? I ask you this because as the old Insurance sales pitch goes "Buy or don’t buy but just listen!"

Till next time

Love,

Denis

The 4th man theme

Denis notes avaliable here

Gentle Reader,

The fourth man to be heard from is perhaps the youngest. Elihu by name [Elihu = God is Jehovah or My God is He]. The last verse of Chapter 31 marks a major break- " The words of Job are ended." And with Chapter 32 we are introduced to a new speaker, Elihu. He has evidently heard all the debate and has held his tongue until now in deference to seniority (verses 4, 6, 7) "JOB 32:4 Now Elihu had waited to speak unto Job, because they were elder than he.

JOB 32:6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; Wherefore I held back, and durst not show you mine opinion.

JOB 32:7 I said, Days should speak, And multitude of years should teach wisdom." Now, however as he hears Job still stubbornly justifying himself while the trio (Larry, Curly, and Mo) increasingly condemn him without being able to answer him, he can not stand it any longer, silently biting his tongue (he must now speak "JOB 32:2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

JOB 32:3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. JOB 32:5 And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, his wrath was kindled." So Elihu breaks forth in the spirit of "The Lone Ranger" "Elihu to the rescue." However again it’s not so easy as it looks. But He does add and contributes a valuable corrective to the discussion "You know what your problem is?" Ever heard that Gentle Reader? I know I have! There is one aspect of Job’s problem which has been overlooked, and it is to this that our new speaker calls to Job’s and our (we are ease dropping you know).

Ehihu’s discourse which fills no less that 6 chapters has be criticized as being disrespectful, verbose and as the speech of a conceited young man. Disrespectful in tone and adding nothing to the arguments. But a more careful reading refutes this unkindly misjudgement. It is in fact Gentle reader, the most courteous speech of the debate, and surpasses all of the proceeding speeches in spiritual grasp.

For we are Gentle Readers of all things a spiritual people (whether you acknowledge this to be true or not!)

First we are introduced to 3 new factors. First, there is a new approach,. Second, there is a new answer. Third there is a new appeal. And we’ll address those next time (groan from the readership) Sorry but like all good soap operas. I want to leave you hungry for the next episode.

Love,  Denis

 

Why the wicked?

Prosper?

Can you find what is within rather than what is without?

Gentle Reader,

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .

The greater you are, the more you must humble yourself.

THE WICKED PROSPER

"Why do the wicked live on, yes, prosper and grow wealthy?" [Job (Iyob) 21. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

This often asked question has puzzled the thoughts of men in every age. Persecuted Job had prospered both materially and spiritually, yet he lost all his worldly possessions, as well as family and friends. The ungodly scorners of the region where he had lived were now humiliating and mocking him, yet they continued to prosper. But why is this?

The same troublesome question occurs gain and again in the HOLY BIBLE. Asaph, a psalmist, confessed: "I envied the wanton and boastful; I saw the wicked prosper and were at ease. Death has no pangs for them; their body is healthy and strong, they have no part in the travail of men; they are not afflicted like the rest of mankind." [Psalms (Tehillym) 73. 3 - 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Jeremiah, the weeping prophet also complained: "Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are the workers of treachery at ease?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 12. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Asaph and Jeremiah were both perplexed at the prosperity and comfort of the wicked until they entered GOD'S Sanctuary and reflected on their fate. [Psalms/Tehillym 73. 17]

And today, there are very few genuine believers who have great wealth or are powerful that are walking humble and righteous before the LORD GOD. There is serious spiritual danger inherent in riches and power, unless these privileges are dedicated deliberately and sincerely to the work of the ALMIGHTY CREATOR. Even the church at Laodicea, was scornfully rebuked by the GLORIFIED LORD YESHUA - "Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'-- and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked." [Revelation 3. 17] They were cunning, deceitful and loved to oppress. Thinking to themselves that they had become rich in finding wealth for themselves by all their labours and thought that no one, even Almighty God, could find iniquity in them. Truly, their minds were dull and diluted.

GOD OMNIPOTENT has promised to supply all our need if we are faithful to Him [Matthew 6. 33; Philippians 4. 19], and we need to weigh all our standards of prosperity on the balances of eternity. "I saw the wicked, powerful, and well-rooted like a healthy native tree. Suddenly he vanished and was gone; I sought him, but he was not to be found. Mark the blameless, note the upright; for there is a future for the man of integrity. But transgressors shall be utterly destroyed, the future of the wicked shall be cut off. The deliverance of the righteous comes from the LORD; their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and rescues them; delivers them from the wicked and saves them, for they seek refuge in HIM and trust in HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 35 - 40 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!

For all things, O GOD our KING, we bless and exalt YOU for ever and ever. YOU are the ROCK of our lives, the SHIELD of our salvation through every generation. YOU, LORD GOD are good, YOUR mercies fail not and YOUR loving kindnesses never cease. We give you thanks and glory and wisdom for this is befitting. Amen.

 Till next time Gentle Reader,

Love, Denis

What does God...

This to happen to me?

 

Why do bad things happen to good people? Part 7

Gentle Reader,

I hope that in taking the time to read and reread these mini studies of the Book of Job your are gaining insight into yourself perhaps you can identify with Elephaz or Bildad or Zophar or maybe even you feel like Job!

It’s hard as we all go through these times. Just remember "Tough times never last, tough people do!"

Now let’s look at these three "friends" of Job once again, and the points of similarity. 1) All of these three men are committed to what is substantially the sane limited and fixed theory of life. (As we have many even today who believe that calamity is always the direct outcome of sin). 2) That Divine favor or disfavor is indicated by man’s material prosperity or adversity. 3) They all have a far too narrow and rigid view of Providence; yet they are sooo sure that their view is right that they look on resistance to their view as resistance to God. See Chapter 11 verse 5 for example "But oh that God would speak, and open his lips against thee;" 4) They all want to prove that goodness and wickedness are always rewarded and punished in this present life: They all are silent concerning human destiny and Divine retribution If there is Retribution in a life beyond this present one. There philosophy and doctrine have no horizon beyond this earth. 5) From the standpoint of argument they are all absolutely static. 6) They all fail to give any real or convincing answer to Job, as is recognized by all those who witness the debate: See chapter 32 verses 3, 5, 11, 12 "Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, his wrath was kindled. Behold, I waited for your words, I listened for your reasonings, Whilst ye searched out what to say. Yea, I attended unto you, And, behold, there was none that convinced Job, Or that answered his words, among you."

Lastly, these three all condemn Job; for in their philosophy, they must either justify Job at God’s expense or justify God at job’s expense. And understandably they chose the latter Chapter 32:3.

How many times Gentle Reader, have you heard when disaster strikes someone wailing (maybe your even saying that now) "Why did God allow this to happen to me?"

We’ll tackle that tough question next time.

Love

Denis

The 3rd Stooge"

Third stooge

Ancient Hebrew text

 

Gentle Reader,

We are having a mini study on the Book of Job and we have been looking at Zophar the third stooge.

Let’s take this time to compare and contrast the three. Look at the differences first. ELIPHAZ rest his views on observation; Bildad rest on tradition; Zophar rest on assumption. Eliphaz is the religious moralist. Bildad is the religious legalist. Zophar is the religious dogmatist. Eliphaz is an apologist. Bildad is the lecturer. Zophar is the bigot; he is full of convictions, but they are assumptions, not reasoned conclusions. In a harsh sort of way, we have Eliphaz, the voice of philosophy; Bildad, the voice of history; and in Zophar,  the voice of orthodoxy; but none is able to give a satisfying answer to a problem like that which confronts Job. These three men can be represented by the three words "IF", "Must" "IS". Eliphaz takes the hypothetical attitude that IF Job were not sinful, the trouble would not have come. Bildad takes the inferential attitude that Job MUST be sinful seeing that the trouble had indeed come. Zophar begins with the assumption that Job IS a sinful man and deserves his affliction.

 What we find Gentle Reader, is that "Religion" cannot take the place to answer, nor can men comprehend the ways of God! ISA 55:8  For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
ISA 55:9  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Next time, Gentle reader bring your thinking cap!

Love, Denis

 

The 3rd "friend"

The Third Stooge/Zophar

 

Gentle reader,

I do hope you have taken an interest in reading for yourself the book of Job.  I am told that yesterday we had an earthquake here (5.2). Not much to speak of but enough to move our toilet several inches around. Could it be possible the "Source" is trying to get our attention? I am just asking in the light of our study of Job.

And now what about the man I call the 3^rd stooge? What about Zophar? We have noted that each "friend" speaks in turn from the oldest to the youngest. Zophar is less courteous and more drastic than either Elipaz or Bildad. This may be due in part to the fact that by the time he entered the argument Job had already answered both of the other two, contradicting their philosophy and upholding his innocence with increasing tenacity. Zophar’s opening words denote that he already feels aggravated. (Chapter 11 verses 2,3) JOB 11:2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?

JOB 11:3 Should thy lies make men hold their peace? and when thou mockest, shall no man make thee ashamed?

Zophar, like the other 2, has his distinguishing features. Eliphaz bases his view on observation and experience. Bildad rest on Tradition. But Zophar is content with mere ASSUMPTION. There is at least reasoned deduction in Eliphaz, and intelligent orthodoxy in Bildad. Bit this man Zophar assumes and pronounces with a finality which would make even Job’s daring to differ a sin. He is the pure dogmatist! From beginning to end of his speeches there is not a semblance of reasoning. There is not the semblance of Eliphaz’s "I have seen" or Bildad’s "Enquire I pray thee of a former age." Zorphar ‘s word is a dogmatic "Know Thou." It occurs in both of his speeches, and in both cases right at the beginning of his main proposition. See Chapter 11:6 and Chapter 20:4. (The latter reads as a question in our English versions, but the Hebrew is simply "know thou")

My question for you Gentle reader, is this Have you meet any of these 3 stooges when you were going through a time of trouble? I know I have... so stay tuned for more insight to the Book of Job.

 Love, Denis

The Second "friend"

Friends are those rare people who ask how you are and then wait for the answer. 

 

Gentle Reader,

We are going through the Book of Job in a mini series to get a handle on "Why Bad things happen to good people" You have the insight based on the first few verses of Chapter 1 that behind it all stands an enemy (Satan ) who has set his cap to destroy Jobs life and his witness (that is the stand he takes for the righteous of God and the Goodness of God. We saw the Larry (Eliphaz) bases all his wisdom on Experience. And Bildad (Curly the second stooge). He does not have the same air of courtesy that Eliphaz had. His first speech perhaps was based on Jobs refusal to acknowledge that he had done anything wrong to bet treated that way. Bildad is a forthright declaimer rather that a reflective reasoned. Unlike Eliphaz who rest his philosophy of life on his own observations and experience, Bildad rest on tradition (now gentle Reader there is nothing intrinsically wrong with tradition. But not at the expense of something that is true in fact. So then we have in Curly -Bildad we have the voice of tradition.

His speeches are simple to understand the first is an appeal, the second is a rebuke the third is an evasion. The first is an appeal and come in three parts an appeal to appearances, (haven’t you run into Curly who say "Well if you had not done this or that you wouldn’t have ended up where you are. "You wouldn’t be homeless if you would just get a job" Makes your eyes bleed doesn’t it Gentle Reader?

According to Bildad Job can not be "pure and upright" note the three "if’s in chapter 8 verses 4,5,6

JOB 8:4 If thy children have sinned against him, and he have cast them away for their transgression;

JOB 8:5 If thou wouldest seek unto God betimes, and make thy supplication to the Almighty;

JOB 8:6 If thou wert pure and upright; surely now he would awake for thee, and make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous.

Bildad’s seconed speech contains nothing new found in Chapter 18 of Job and consists of no actual reasoning, but rather proverb -quoting. Verses 1-4 are a rebuke in the form of indignant personal questions

JOB 18:1 Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said,

JOB 18:2 How long will it be ere ye make an end of words? mark, and afterwards we will speak.

JOB 18:3 Wherefore are we counted as beasts, and reputed vile in your sight?

JOB 18:4 He teareth himself in his anger: shall the earth be forsaken for thee? and shall the rock be removed out of his place?

Verse 5-21 are a rebuke in the form of traditional moral maxims. His third speech comes in Chapter 25 and only has 6 verses. There are a few sententious couplets and is really an evasion. It completely shirks Job’s preceding challenge. (Chapter 24) as to the fact that is the wicked that more often prosper and not the righteous. Bildad touches on 2 well worn topics again -the all-Holy majesty of God (verse 2,3) and the sinfulness of man (verse 4-6) It’s closing words - "Behold even to the moon, and it shineth not; yea, the stars are not pure in his sight" are merely a truism as applied to Job.; for Job has never claimed to be without sin, but only that his sins has not been such as to account for his trouble.

Hidden in plain site however is a question that we will answer at some point in this mini series {Chapter 25 verse 4" How then can man be justified with God?}

Keep reading Gentle Reader and see if you can locate the key to this book Why bad things happen to good people.

Love, Denis

A Friend is one who you can count on to provide a soft place to land

Continuing our Study of Job

JOB

The first stooge Larry speaks

 

"Experience is a dear teacher, but fools will learn at no other."

Gentle reader,

There is an expression "keep your friends close and your enemies closer." But what if your friends however well meaning are more dangerous that your worst nightmare. Who are friends? Gentle Reader, but those when everyone turns their back on you that stand by you when no one else gives a whoop do du! These three friends of Job’s are just such friends they sit in silence for a week before they even open their mouths

JOB 2:11 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.

JOB 2:12 And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted up their voice, and wept; and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven.

JOB 2:13 So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.

Finely after Job declares that he has done nothing wrong, Eliphaz (We’ll call him Larry -remember the 3 stooges) the oldest of the three speaks He speaks of Jobs helping others in time of need and then points out that it has now fallen upon Job to receive The things that must have befallen him for some misdeed! (Sound familiar Gentle Reader?) Have you ever been told "Well you must have done some thing dreadfully wrong for God to have treated you this way"!

Eliphaz says many true things (as do the others), and often rises into eloquence, but he remains hard and cruel, a dogmatist who must be heard because of one remarkable experience. One will note that Eliphaz bases his whole discussion on general observation and what he feels is special spiritual illumination. His reference to special wisdom handed down from his Temanite predecessors.

Larry (Eliphaz ) while He doesn’t come right out at first and say this (JOB, you are a hypocrite, You must have sinned! Based on experience we all know if you have troubles it’s sin that brought this on. )And Gentle Reader, this understanding is still seen in many churches that say they believe in Grace but sin is the cause of all of your problems.

If that were true then America is in big trouble because we see all around us SIN! Not that any of us have room to point fingers but just in the human nature we have flaws and weaknesses that cause us to act in ways that are at best a poor example of humanity.

Larry thinks he knows why Job has all these things going wrong but He is soooo wrong Gentle Reader, that while He says "Get right with God" No wonder so many people are turned off by modern day Christians.  What do you think will please God so that He'll not knock you down? I'm here to tell you Gentle Reader, you don't have anything to bargain with to make God love you any more - or any less!

Just so you know Gentle Reader, "those so-called Christians who shove your face in what they call sin aren’t really any more than those who say they won’t steal (take a step back and hold on to your wallet) So Larry, sit back and learn a few things. We’ll get back to you latter.

 Next Time we'll take on another friend!

 But understand I'm just saying that people don't really understand what life is all about. If your smart you learn what it's all about.

 Love,

Denis

We interrupt this study....

Dear Gentle Reader,

I have managed to pull some muscles in my back so until I am able to sit for more that 2-3 minutes at a time here is something to read and watch I think you'll find it interesting.

Stand up for Academic Freedom and see EXPELLED: No Intelligence Allowed in theaters nationwide on FREEDOM FRIDAY - April 18th.

EXPELLED: No Intelligence Allowed, starring Ben Stein, follows his journey around the globe where he discovers that scientists, educators and philosophers are being persecuted in a modern day witch hunt because they dare to go against the theory of evolution. These pillars of education are being fired, ridiculed and ostracized for merely challenging Darwin's theory; proposing that life on this planet could be a part of some intelligent design and not random chance.

This thought-provoking film not only forces us to question what we have been taught but challenges us to ask, “What else is being kept from us?”

 Love, Denis

 

 

nothing can hurt...

No weapon that is formed against thee shall PROSPER; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. (Isaiah 54:17)

Gentle Reader,

The 4^th thing we should  know about our enemy is most important. That is from Satan’s own words in the prologue is that this evil one is neither omnipresent nor omniscient. Many like to think that like flip Wilson "the Devil made me do it." That Satan is everywhere but read again those first verses in Chapter One Satan is limited by time and space. [see my entry on time and the theory of everything]. He may move with lightening like speed. But none the less he is a created being and therefore a local being. He can only be at one place at a time. Many Christians have a mistaken belief that Satan is hovering about them in a shadowy sort of way, but they are wrong.

Nor must we think that Satan is omniscient - as many seem to think. While God can see into our minds Satan cannot! Here is comfort for the saints. Our thought can be private between us and God. Satan can only influence but never force. He can however take over a human mind IF we would allow his access. But he cannot control especially a child of the most High God. As God has put a seal on those who are his.

5th We note that Satan can do nothing without Divine permission ! His machinations are under the perpetual surveillance of the Almighty. He is free to rage and be as restless as one can be tied to a long cord free but bound! (Job 38:11) "Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further:" It is because Satan can do nothing without permission that God is able again and again to rule and overrule Satan’s doings to the ultimate good of those he would ruin. As Paul says in the Book of Romans, " And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28 )

6th And let us be to learn this Gentle Reader, in every such permission thee is a definite limitation. The first in Job is in Chapter 1 verse 12 "And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand".... Then when Job sublimely survived the test, there is a further permission, but also a further limitation, " But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.

And the LORD said unto Satan, "Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life." (Job 2:5-6). Here is again comfort for the saint. Satan has absolutely no power against the Saint beyond what God allows. Remember Dear child of God. "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Eph. 6:12). Nothing can touch you except what God in His infinite knowledge wills. But why? You may ask would God allow something tragic to happen? See 1 Corinthians 10:13 "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. The concept of temptation is the same as one would stretch a rubber band to the breaking point. Not for God pleasure but that you may learn what sort sterner stuff you are made of. For unless you are spiritually stretched you will never grow into the perfection that god sees when He made you.

Finally let us learn afresh that from this prologue that God’s eyes are ever on his own people and especially so in times of trial such as what you are going through right Gentle Reader! God’s question to Satan was "hast thou set thine heart against my servant Job...?" The very question indicates that God also had Job in His thoughts. Note: How God calls Job by name as He knows Job He knows all of His Children. So it is will all God’s Jobs.

Never fear Gentle Reader, God is just a whisper away.

Love, Denis

Wiles of

Enemy

"There is no neutral ground in the universe; every square inch, every split second, is claimed by God and counter-claimed by Satan” C. S. Lewis

 

Gentle Reader,

You think that people are out to get you, think of it this way we have an unseen enemy who want to fill your life with as  much misery and pain as possible!  In our wee study of the book of Job we find that there are Arresting Implications with the person introduced to us as Satan. The first two having already been considered we now turn our attention to a third. that is:

3. Satan is behind the evils that curse the earth. In reply to the question "Whence comest thou? " Satan replies "From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."

It seems clear that Satan has a special interest towards man and his place of residence. The book of Genesis gives insight to the origin on man's participation in Sin (Yes, Virginia, there is sin on the earth). Scriptures make it plain that progressively that Satan is largely responsible for the evils that afflict our race. (It's the enemy unseen that can influence one to commit acts unspeakable. Satan's words  "going to and fro and  walking up and down in it." indicate his restless and unintermittent and malevolent strategies.  He knows nothing of peace and joy which inheres beneficent service.

This perpetual motion of unrest is ever the mark of Evil, banished from God. See  Isaiah 57:20 "But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt." and Matthew 12:23 "When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none". But besides this restlessness there is a perpetual purpose of evil in Satan's peregrinations. He is the "god of this age" who blinds the minds of the unbelieving.  We can never get far in dealing with the world's social problems or closer to home your problems until we realize that behind man's inhumanity to man is the energising and organising mind of a spiritual entity that influences men, women, boys and girls to give in to hatred, wickedness, and all sorts destestable actions that offend our senseabilities.  Many refuse to acknowledge that simple fact that we are spiritual beings with a moral compass. Some even blame "religion" and while "religion" has been used often to advance Satan's plans, men who are tools have been just as wrong in trying to make everyone fit into a mold of their own making!  "Religion" was and is not the answer Gentle Reader. But we'll come to that later as we explore why bad things happen to good people.  

Sound familiar Gentle Reader?

keep reading!

Denis

Equal time

And now for the other side of the coin

 

Gentle Reader,

Having spent some of your considerable time presenting the inter-evidence of the date and authorship of the book of Job. We now need to turn to the one called the Devil ("the Devil made me do it")- Flip Wilson. Some of the other names of Satan are his attributes. The following are names of Satan and aliases he uses:

Lucifer, meaning morning star (Isaiah 14:12)

ruler of the demons (Matthew 12:24)

god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)

devil/accuser (Matthew 4:1)

prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2)

roaring lion (1 Peter 5:

serpent (Genesis 3:1)

dragon ( Revelation 12:9); 20:2

adversary (Job 1)

tempter (Matthew 4:3)

the anointed Cherub that covers (Ezekiel 28:14)

Beelzebub (Matthew 12:24)

Belial (2 Corinthians 6:15)

wicked one (Matthew 13:19)

What we see in the first few verses are some arresting Implications concerning Satan. (Your adversary-the Devil [who is by the way a spirit un like what you see on what I affectionality call the boob tube.

If in fact that we can be assured that the Book of Job is true then why would it begin with the prologue that it does unless we are to understand several things.

1. Satan is accountable to God He is called "son of God" Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them. (Job 1:6)

Not as a privilege of access, or to participate in governmental deliberations of The Divine Mind. But to render an account. He no less than other creatures is subject to divine Authority. His appearing before the throne of god is neither a privilege from God nor a presumption of his own, but a compelling ruling of the Most High which this arch-enemy dare not and cannot avoid.

2. Second, we see here that even the dark mind of satan is an open book to God. It might sound at first glance as though God’s words, " Hast thou considered my servant Job, ... (Job 1: Were because God didn’t know where Satan had been or what he had been up to, but to compel a confession on the part of Satan. More literally translated God’s question is "Hast thou set thine heart on (or against) my servant Job because there is none like him.... Satan’s reply immediately revealed that he HAD, and that his lack of success was because God had hedged Job to protect him. It is a good thing to reflect that God knows all that is in Satan’s mind at that at all times, against any of the saints.

To be continued...

 Hang in there Gentle Reader..... More understanding is on it's way! In the mean time you need to know that Satan has no power over you except that which you give him. And if you are a believer you cannot be touched ...

 Love, Denis

Looking to the Past

Satellite picture of the crossing of the Red Sea

Why oh, Why? Should I believe a book over 3000 years old Dr. Denis?

Gentle reader,

If it were merely a fiction novel then I would say your better off reading something else but what if... (that is where I always start what if this were true then what if something else were true maybe not all that we believe is mythical for example:

A little boy once returned home from Hebrew school and his father asked, "what did you learn today?"

He answered, "The Rabbi told us how Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt."

"How?"

The boy said "Moses was a big strong man and he beat Pharaoh up. Then while he was down, he got all the people together and ran towards the sea. When he got there, he has the Corps of Engineers build a huge pontoon bridge. Once they got on the other side, they blew up the bridge while the Egyptians were trying to cross."

The father was shocked. "Is that what the Rabbi taught you?"

The boy replied, "No. But you'd never believe the story he DID tell us!"

You see gentle reader, many want to believe something is true (even when their senses tell them that the thing heard was true) But then common sense steps up and says "That can’t be true" and So a person goes away and doubts simply because they were too lazy (or worse not interested enough to investigate for themselves).

So with that in mind let’s take a step back and consider some possibilities as to the "FACTS" about the book of Job!

If Job was the son of Issachar (Gen 46:13) "And the sons of Issachar; Tola, and Phuvah, and Job, and Shimron.", then we have a clue that may help us to a decision of both the authorship of the Book of Job and the date of its writing. There is no reason at this point to doubt that JOB should not be the son of Issachar, and we have no better evidence is forthcoming for a different view.

The 3 friends of Job were descendants of ESAU; they would therefore be contemporaries.

ELIPHAZ of Teman in Idumea was the son of ESAU, and had a son called TEMAN, from whom his country took its name (Gen. 36:10,11) These are the names of Esau's sons; Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau, Reuel the son of Bashemath the wife of Esau.

And the sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, and Gatam, and Kenaz. It was noted for its "wise men" (Jer. 49:7) "Concerning Edom, thus saith the LORD of hosts; Is wisdom no more in Teman? is counsel perished from the prudent? is their wisdom vanished? And is mentioned with EDOM (Amos 1:11,12) . Note and compare Jer 25:23 where both are connected with BUZ the brother of UZ (Gen. 22:21)

Note: UZ was where Job was "in the land"

BILDAD the Shuhite. Shuah was the 6^th son of Abraham by Keturah (Gen. 25:2) and is mentioned in connection with Esau, Edom, and Teman (Jer. 49: .

Zophar the Naamathite Naamah (now Na aneh , six miles south of Lod, in the lowlands of Judah).

Now then you see Gentle Reader, why Genealogy is important like going to a baseball game and not knowing the lineup!

If Job was the son of Issaachar (Ge. 46:13), he would have gone done to Egypt with his father.

And Issachar was forty at "the going down to Egypt". Job being the 3^rd son (Gen. 46:13), he would have been about 20 at the time [1706 B.C.]

We are told that Job lived 140 years after his " double blessing" (42:10) "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." And if (the Greek prepositional if If and it could be true) If his "double blessing’ included length of years, then his age would have been 70+140=210 (i.e. three 70's of years) Jobs lifetime would have been from 1726-1516 B.C.

According to this, he was born the year after Joseph was sold and died 119 years after the death of Joseph in (1635 B.C.) Where Joseph died Job was 91.

If Jobs "double blessing" did include length of years, then his affliction took place 21 years previously , when he was 70. His removal from Egypt to UZ would therefore have taken place earlier. Still.

When job died (1516 B.C.) Moses would have been 55, and had been in Midan 15 years (25 years) before the Exodus).

This would account for Job being a worshiper of the God of Abraham and explains how Moses could have been the author of the book and even perhaps an eye-and ear witness to the events it recorded in Midian. If so that these hypotheses are true (which I have very little doubt) then we believe the time has come that this book should be considered as "the Porch of the sanctuary" and when this "fundamental wisdom of original revelation will cease to be asscribed, as it now is by some of the best, to a latter poet of Israel.

Rest your wee heads Gentle Readers, with another joke:

As Moses and the children of Israel were crossing the Red Sea, the children of Israel began to complain to Moses of how thirsty they were after walking so far. Unfortunately, they were not able to drink from the walls of water on either side of them, as they were made up of salt-water.

Then, a fish from that wall of water told Moses that he and his family heard the complaints of the people, but that they through their own gills could remove the salt from the water and force it out of their mouths like a fresh water fountain for the Israelites to drink from as they walked by.

Moses accepted this kindly fish's offer. But before the fish and his family began to help, they told Moses they had a demand. They and their descendants had to be always present at the seder meal that would be established to commemorate the Exodus, since they had a part in the story. When Moses agreed to this, he gave them their name which remains how they are known to this very day, for he said to them, "Go Filter Fish!"

 Till next time Gentle Reader, dust off your History book and read for your life!

 love, Denis

What we know

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

 

"How to become good without really trying"

 Dear Gentle reader,

The purpose of the Book of Job is not to answer your question "Why do bad things happen to good people" although I dare say in the reading you may find a solution, but at best it is a interim solution, not by any means the final solution. Suffering is so common that many never give it a thought of how those who suffer feel!

The purpose of the book is to give those who are capable of learning a chance to see beyond the mist and behind the suffering what lies for all. That is the is a divine purpose and what suffering and pain exercise is a gracious ministry for the godly (those who can see beyond the material into what we call the spiritual. Did you know Gentle Reader, that science has now evidence that our brain is "hardwired" to have an understanding of the existence of God. Don’t faint just because there are those who claim that since God can not be found by "scientific evidence" He can not exist! Sorry boys but if you could prove by "scientific evidence God exist then He would be much of a God, now would He?

Behind all the suffering of the godly is a high purpose of God, and beyond it all is an "afterwards" of glorious enrichment. Such suffering as we learn from This Book of Job, is not judicial, but remedial; not punitive, but corrective; not retributive, but disciplinary; not a penalty, but a ministry.

This Book and the central message of Job then may be expressed as: "BLESSING THROUGH SUFFERING" Through bitter calamity comes blessed discovery . The Book is a grand illustration of the Apostle Paul’s words. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 )

Get your head around this Gentle Reader, and get a hold of the concept that you are being transformed into very image of Christ who is the fullness of the invisible God.

Till next time,

Love,

Denis

Why JOB?

Gentle Reader,

The reason why is found below. But in case you have trouble understanding why I would write/talk about the book of Job is because we live in a world that has gone mad!

Wal mart is suing a brain damaged woman employee to regain money back that they paid out (they were at fault) for medical bills , never mind that she is totally dependent on others in a nursing home. Never mind that Wal Mart earned $900 billion (yes that is right $900 Billion last quarter). Never mind that SEX is so rampant that the police are going on the Internet to catch predators. Never mind that you are facing the worst time in your life. Losing your jobs to other countries, facing the choice between eating food or buying gas! Never mind that parents are throwing their children off bridges or teens are shooting each other over the smallest slight.  Why? do I write about the Book of Job? Because God understands and you need to understand why bad things happen to good people!   

Understanding Job

Dear Gentle reader,

When one truly seeks answers one comes face to face with the questions that the Book of Job deals with in an extended epic of great proportions.

One can accept that this is a Historical book filled with facts or merely an allegory of the fate of men in general. Which ever side you choose there are grand moral lessons to be learned if (and that’s the rub if you are willing to set aside your preconceived notions and really get past the Religious scenery to the heart of the matter. Dr Arthur Custance said in his book Seed of the Woman "The Words of Scripture are for Children The thoughts are for men"

I will assume that you have graduated from merely looking at words to attempting to understand the thoughts behind them.

To many the book of Job is a record of unrelieved gloom, with Job longing to be where ‘the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest’. This however is only part of the truth revealed.Suffering is answered by comfort and consolation, reproach and loss give place to honour and blessing.The fruits of victory are given to one who by his faith endured and overcame.

The author draws back the curtain and shows how this ancient record came into the hands of one ‘learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians’. Here, Moses would read for the first time truths that form part of the book of Genesis; Adam’s sin, the Sons of God, the majesty of the Creator and the vastness of His handiwork. Not only so, but here he would read of a Redeemer who lived, of a Ransom provided, and of a hope that through Him man may be raised from sleep in the dust of the earth. The conclusion is inescapable that such a book would not only influence but impart power and wisdom to the man chosen to be the deliverer and lawgiver of Israel.

When we speak of the inspiration of Scripture, we must be careful not to exclude ordinary sources of information. The inspiration of the book of Kings for example is not in any sense invalidated by the fact that whoever compiled that book under the guidance of God, did not hesitate to avail himself of existing records, a special inspiration is not required if such record as is available should at the same time be true. Consequently we find reference is made to ‘the book of the acts of Solomon’ (1 Kings 11:41); to a ‘book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah’ (1 Kings 14:29); and to a ‘book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel’ (1 Kings 14:19). We also learn

from 1 Chronicles 29:29 that Samuel, Nathan and Gad compiled a history (margin) of the ‘acts of David the king, first and last’. We discover from Daniel 9:2 that the great prophecy of the ‘seventy sevens’ grew out of reading the writings of Jeremiah, and Luke, in the New Testament provides us with an instance of one who though claiming to have had ‘perfect understanding of all things from the very first’ (‘from above’ anothen) nevertheless used the testimony of ‘eye-witnesses’ who testified of those things which were most surely believed (Luke 1:1-4).

When we turn to the first of the books of Moses, it becomes evident that the opening chapters dealing with Creation are a direct revelation, but that the bulk of the book of Genesis is composed of the records that were compiled since the days of Adam, beginning with ‘The book of the generations of Adam’ in Genesis 5:1. It is evident, when reading Genesis 23:17-20, that Moses had a document before him, for he records the original place name Machpelah, but brings it up to date by informing the reader that ‘The same is Hebron in the land of Canaan’ (see also verse 2). In the book of Genesis therefore we have a history, preceded by a revelation which deals with

Creation and Satanic interference, important elements which apparently were not included in the ‘Book of the generations of Adam’, yet which are vital to a true understanding of the book as a whole. If Moses had access to the documents, or ‘generations’ as they are termed, that give an unbroken account of the life of man from Adam to Noah, from Noah to Abraham, and from Abraham to the twelve sons of Jacob.

So with my understanding I hold that the Book of Job was the first book written although not the book first in your Bible. We begin with the introduction and we would call this the set-up

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.

And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.

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.

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

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. (Job 1:6-12)

What we gather from this brief introduction is that the author wants his readers to learn this simple truth "it is the end of the Lord" that is to say the end to which Job was brought the confession of human impotence in attaining righteousness and thankfully casting himself on Divine Omnipotence for the rescuing or (salvation) of Himself.

We also see the his three friends (I used to call them the three stooges Larry Curly and Mo ). Today, I would called them the 3 Psychiatrist! ("Here is my solution for your troubles take this pill") The 3 show the impotence of human experience Eliphaz, represents Human experience. Bildad, human tradition, and Zophar human merit.

Next time,

Love, Denis

These are times that...

Try mens souls

 

 My own translation

 

Gentle reader,  

With times as they are I thought I might share how things were perceived way back before we were born and the first book believed to be written of the Old Testament (the Hebrew bible) the book of Job (no,  not jobs as one person put it ) but how to deal with the stress that everyone feels at this time. No jobs, (no pun intended -well maybe, no money (or at least not enough to drive to the store (even WalMart is too expensive for many of us)  The great 'American Dream' seems to have disappeared!   So here is a mini study on the way things are and how God perceives them

Introduction to the Book of Job

THE BOOK OF JOB is one of the most widely quoted stories in the TORAH, the history of the Hebrew people and their God. A version of the TORAH, including the BOOK OF JOB, was later translated and edited into the first five books of the Christian BIBLE, referred to as the THE OLD TESTAMENT. The stories of the TORAH, stemming from a long oral tradition in the ancient world, were probably first written down between the eighth and second centuries B.C.E.  ['Before Common Era',

The BOOK OF JOB relates the suffering and resolve of Job, a godly man and possible candidate for 'World’s Earliest Intellectual' since he dares to question his existence. As a spiritual lesson, the story of Job poses a number of questions on the nature of God and the unnecessary pain inflicted on the righteous in what often seems a pointlessly cruel world.

The BOOK OF JOB is also notable for its use of an informed prologue in which the audience is privy to a secret knowledge that the protagonist in the story is not. This use of dramatic irony is most commonly seen in Greek tragedies and adds an element of suspense to the telling of Job’s tribulations.

PLOT:

In the first two chapters, or prologue, of the BOOK OF JOB, God decides to use Job as a demonstration to his skeptical subordinate, Satan, who doubts Job's unflappable faith in God. God tells Satan that he may take away everything from Job. Satan wastes no time and plagues the old man in short thrift; Job soon loses his family, his farm and riches, and is finally covered in hideous boils. Job has no knowledge of God and Satan’s conversations in the prologue nor of the resultant bet on his spiritual faith. Meanwhile, back on the earthly plane, Job’s wife tells Job to turn away from God, while his three friends tell him to repent, assuming that Job has committed an egregious sin to be punished by God so completely. Job keeps his faith but he neither curses God nor openly repents for any mysterious sins.

 Instead, he sits quietly and waits for God to explain himself. The answer finally comes in the form of a divine whirlwind. From the heart of the raging storm, God speaks to the frightened Job, telling him that God's reasons are incomprehensible to the human mind. Job’s health, family and riches are restored at the end of the book -- a reward for his faithfulness.

 That in a nutshell is the whole book but we are (being more literate that those who want to watch the boob tube ad nauseum) will take a wee closer look at several factors and try to draw some understanding as well as comfort for the 21st century.

 Until next timed then I am as hopeful as one can be waiting on God. Of course if you have no hope then. . . what? Love,

Denis