Job 1:3 describes Job as the “greatest of all the men of the east.” His possessions were many, his family was prosperous, and he lived His life pleasing to the Lord. Even Job, who was considered righteous by God, suffered horrific tragedies. As the first and second chapters relate, Job lost everything, and his health also failed him. His friends came advising him but were of no real help. Job felt pressed into the earth by the weight of all his pain and sadness. In Job 7:4, he described the restless nights he faced as he suffered:
“When I lie down I say, ‘When shall I arise?’ But the night continues, And I am continually tossing until dawn.”
I have thankfully had very few nights that fit this description; they were most unpleasant. Job was suffering and had no reprieve, even in the night. He continued speaking in Job 7:13-16:
“If I say, ‘My bed will comfort me, My couch will ease my complaint,’ Then You frighten me with dreams And terrify me by visions; So that my soul would choose suffocation, Death rather than my pains. “I waste away; I will not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are but a breath.
If these words resonate with you now, you need to know that Job did not quickly find comfort from his pain. He continued to suffer and wonder why his life was filled with misery. Only at the end of the book was Job rewarded for his faithfulness through all his undeserved anguish. Remember this, you who are suffering now:
Job’s suffering was not a punishment for sin (Job 1:8)
Job maintained his righteousness through all his suffering (Job 1:22; 2:10)
Job was rewarded because as he suffered, he spoke only that which was right concerning God (Job 42:7-17)
God promises rest for those who continue living faithfully during their life on earth (Heb. 4:9-10). If you are suffering, if your nights bring only long, dark, pain-filled moments until dawn, know that your pain is not eternal if you remain faithful to God. Suffer faithfully and seek the home God has prepared (Heb. 11:16).