“Does Job fear God for nothing?”

Job 1:9
Job is a fascinating book, a favorite for many. We read and we immediately sympathize with Job’s tragedy. We see ourselves in his suffering. We listen to the bad advice he receives from his friends. They assume, like so many, that there must be some reason why all these bad things have happened. A secret sin perhaps. Because the book bears his name, we might assume that it is all about Job. It’s not.

Does Job fear God for nothing? The term fear God may seem strange to us. Here it has more to do with Job’s commitment and devotion to the LORD. Job faithfully serves and worships God. The Accuser is asking why. Is it because God has blessed him with material blessings? Does God “buy off” His worshipers? Those who read the book are meant to ask themselves the same question, “Why do I serve God?” Would you still serve God if you received nothing but to worship Him?

In our overly materialistic world, I think Job has a message that needs to be renewed amongst us. Despite the many messages that are being preached and taught, God is not in the prosperity business. That may be an attractive way to get many people to listen, but it is simply not true. Righteousness is not simply a pursuit of blessing and prosperity. Our desire is to have God. Job’s complaint against God does not lead to answer for his suffering. Rather, God reveals himself to be much bigger, greater, and fuller than Job could have ever imagined. God stands in the midst of all of Job’s chaos as his anchor.

Yes, God does reward the faithful, but He does not do it to get them to serve Him. He does not bribe His servants. Belief precedes the blessing. In the New Testament, the blessing comes in the form of a cross. In it, God beckons us to Himself in sweet communion. God gives His Son to us. God gives Himself to us.