Topical Encyclopedia The concept of resignation, particularly in the context of suffering and divine sovereignty, is profoundly illustrated in the life of Job, a central figure in the Old Testament. Job's account is primarily found in the Book of Job, which is part of the Wisdom Literature in the Hebrew Bible. Job is depicted as a man of great faith and integrity, living in the land of Uz. His narrative explores themes of suffering, divine justice, and human response to inexplicable trials.Job's Character and Initial Prosperity Job is introduced as a man "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). He is described as wealthy, with a large family and numerous possessions, signifying God's blessing upon him. Job's piety is evident in his regular offerings and prayers for his children, demonstrating his deep commitment to God (Job 1:5). The Testing of Job The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Satan challenges Job's integrity, suggesting that his faithfulness is due to his prosperity. God permits Satan to test Job, first by taking away his possessions and children, and subsequently by afflicting him with painful sores (Job 1:12-19, 2:7). Despite these severe trials, Job's response is one of profound resignation and faith. He declares, "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). Job's Resignation and Faith Job's resignation is not a passive acceptance but a deep acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and righteousness. Even when urged by his wife to "curse God and die," Job maintains his integrity, responding, "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" (Job 2:9-10). This response highlights Job's unwavering faith and his understanding that human beings are subject to God's will, whether in prosperity or adversity. Dialogue with Friends and Divine Encounter Throughout the dialogues with his friends, Job wrestles with the reasons for his suffering, maintaining his innocence while expressing his anguish. His friends, adhering to a retributive theology, insist that his suffering must be due to sin. Job, however, longs for a mediator and ultimately desires a direct encounter with God to plead his case (Job 9:33, 13:3). God eventually responds to Job out of the whirlwind, challenging Job's understanding and reminding him of the divine wisdom and power that govern the universe (Job 38-41). Job's resignation is further deepened as he recognizes his limitations and the majesty of God, leading him to repent in dust and ashes (Job 42:6). Restoration and Legacy In the epilogue, God restores Job's fortunes, granting him twice as much as he had before, along with a new family (Job 42:10-13). Job's account concludes with him living a long and blessed life, underscoring the themes of divine justice and the ultimate vindication of the righteous. Job's example of resignation in the face of suffering serves as a profound testament to faith and trust in God's sovereign purposes, even when human understanding falls short. His account continues to inspire believers to maintain integrity and faithfulness amidst life's trials, trusting in God's ultimate wisdom and justice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 2:10But he said to her, You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Union of Our Will to the Divine Good-Pleasure in Spiritual ... Job Job --Groping Letter xxx. --Resignation in Sickness. Holy Exercises of Resignation. Resignation. The Impassibility and Immortality of the Risen Body. Our Attitude Toward his Sovereignty Sorrow that Worships Accidents, not Punishments Resources What does the Bible say about acceptance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about fate / destiny? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to pray, “Thy will be done”? | GotQuestions.org Resignation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Resignation: Christ Set and Example of Resignation: General Scriptures Concerning Resignation: Motives to God's Faithfulness Resignation: Motives to God's Greatness Resignation: Motives to God's Justice Resignation: Motives to God's Love Resignation: Motives to God's Wisdom Resignation: Motives to Our own Sinfulness Resignation: Submission to the Sovereignty of God in his Purposes Resignation: Submission to the Will of God Resignation: The Prospect of Death Resignation: The Wicked are Devoid of Related Terms |
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