One of the most interesting accounts in _script_ure of suffering is found in Job. At first glance, it is hard to understand why the Lord allowed all the calamity to fall upon Job. But in analyzing this account, we learn much.

One interesting thing we learn is about Satan, and at that time, he had access to both heaven and to earth. The conversation between Satan and God is incredible, and tells us much about what power Satan has AND DOES NOT HAVE.

Job's friends are little comfort to him, blaming and accusing him that he must have some sin or hidden sin in his life that is accounting for the terrible things that befell him. But we know better, as readers, as the Lord had more blessing in store for Job than he had before.

Job could have cursed God and died (as his own wife suggested) but he did not. He trusted the Lord through the bad times, and though it was not easy for him, sustained his relationship with the Almighty.

In the end, Job was faithful to God. And he was rewarded. We can learn much from Job. And unlike his friends, we can comfort those around us in need, not by trying to analyze why, but offering support and encouragement instead, in that God has a superior plan in all that happens.

You can catch the sermon on the patience of Job in the "Media Files" section or CLICK HERE to LISTEN NOW

I too think we tend to elevate Satan too much and give him equal or near equal status with God.

Don't get me wrong, Satan isn't someone to be trifled with, he has a lot of power but nothing compared to Jesus, if you don't believe me, read the book of Revelation, it is, "what is to come"

Pastor Mike