To think that God and Satan might have a conversation . . . and that such a conversation might focus on what’s happening on earth . . . and focus not in general terms but focus on a specific man . . . living at a specific time . . . in a specific place . . . amidst a specific set of life circumstances . . . to think about such a conversation, absolutely amazes me. Such is the case every time I read Job 1.

I’m amazed at Job . . . a man described as “blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil” (1:1). Whatever the form of revelation available to Job during his time, he responded to it. He was a man who lived in a reverential fear of the Creator. He understood enough of the character of God to know that which was counter-character to God’s holiness . . . and, as such, determined to turn away and repel all manner of evil. He determined, as much as lied within him, to walk in the way of righteousness . . . a man of integrity . . . beyond reproach.

And I’m amazed that this characterization of Job wasn’t just the talk of the town . . . but it was conversation of heaven itself. That Job was blameless and upright, wasn’t just his own claim to fame . . . that Job feared God and shunned evil, was more than just a good reputation he held among the people of Uz. That Job was noteworthy, was the topic of conversation of God Himself (1:8, 2:3). Not only did God notice Job . . . God wanted others in heavenly places to notice Job as well. How pleased God must have been with this man’s determination to live a manner worthy of the God he had owned as Lord . . . so pleased that when the sons of God presented themselves before the Lord, and Satan along with them, the Lord said to Satan, “Hey, have you noticed my servant Job?” (1:6-8)

I’m amazed also concerning God’s confidence in Job that He would allow Satan to mess with Job’s life . . . and mess in a big, big, way. You might think that the reward for bringing God glory (which Job did) would be more blessing . . . aka good stuff . . . but it seems the reward for bringing God glory is the opportunity to bring Him even more glory . . . and that doesn’t necessarily translate into the status quo of the good life. Satan is permitted power over all Job has but he is not permitted to lay a hand on Job’s person (1:12). And the devil takes full advantage of the latitude he’s given by God to upset Job’s apple cart. A day comes when, in a matter of minutes, Job’s entire world comes crashing down around him. His business is destroyed . . . his wealth vanishes . . . and worst yet, his 10 children are all taken in a freak storm. What does a blameless and upright man do now? How does a man who fears God and shuns evil respond to such personal catastrophe and tragedy? This too is amazing . . .

“Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. And he said: ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD.’ ” (1:20-21)

Oh, that I might model such a man. That everything . . . whether blessing or trial or tragedy . . . might pass through a “God filter” such that in every circumstance I would worship Him. That I would bless His name for so much more than the good things I enjoy from His hand . . . but also bless His name simply because He is worthy of blessing . . . all the time . . . in all circumstance.

I don’t know if I’m a subject of conversation in heaven . . . but I do know that He knows me. I don’t know what the future may bring, but I do know the God of the future, and that in all things He can be trusted . . . that in all things He can be blessed and worshiped . . . and that He delights in such worship . . .

Isn’t that amazing?