God Blesses Job Again

Remember the story of Job? He was a good and righteous man who loved God. But then, he faced terrible hardships. He lost his wealth, his children, and even his health. Job couldn't understand why these awful things were happening to him, and he had many long conversations with his friends about it. They tried to explain why God might be punishing him, but Job insisted he had done nothing wrong. In chapters 38-42, God finally speaks to Job! God doesn't explain why Job suffered, but He shows Job His incredible power and wisdom by asking him questions about the creation of the world. Job realizes how small and limited his understanding is compared to God's. He humbly repents and acknowledges God's sovereignty. Because of Job's faithfulness through his suffering, and his humble acceptance of God's greatness, God blesses Job again, even more than before!

Discussion Questions:

1. How do you think Job felt when God finally spoke to him? Was he angry? Relieved? Scared?
2. What are some of the amazing things God describes when He talks about creation (look back at specific verses if you like)? What do these things tell us about God?
3. Job realized he didn't understand everything. Have you ever felt like you didn't understand why something was happening? How did you handle it?
4. Even though Job went through terrible times, he remained faithful to God. What does this teach us about trusting God even when things are hard?
5. How did God bless Job in the end? What does this tell us about God's character and his love for those who trust Him?
6. Do you think Job deserved to be blessed again? Why or why not?
7. Can you think of a time when you or someone you know experienced hardship and then God blessed them in some way?

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the story of Job. We see how much he suffered, but also how you remained with him and ultimately blessed him. Help us to trust in your wisdom and power, even when we don't understand what is happening in our lives. Give us the strength to remain faithful to you through difficult times, knowing that you are always good and loving. Thank you for the reminder that you are the creator of all things and that your understanding is far beyond our own. We pray for your blessings in our lives, just as you blessed Job. Amen.

This discussion is based on The One Year Bible Storybook by Virginia Muir.