Why Did God Let Satan Afflict Job? Why Let Anyone?

12And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.

Answer:

   Job life is representative of what we as Christian's must go through. Satan is the prince of this world. In John 17:14-16, we are shown that though we are in this world, we are not of this world. We belong to Christ Jesus. This story of Job is classic in Satan's challenge to God that Job would not stay faithful to Him. Job, of course, did not turn away from God or blame Him, which vindicated God. God receives glory for this, and other sufferings people go through. It shows our love, loyalty, and faith in him when we face these troubles head-on and persevere. He became flesh and died on the cross for us, we certainly can suffer for Him.

   Many professing Christians today get caught up in the false prosperity gospel and political correctness in the world through the likes of TD Jakes, Creflo Dollar, Benny Hinn, Joel Osteen, and the list goes on. The problem comes about when people enter into a relationship with what they believe is the Living God, but base it on what they can get out of this life. Then when it doesn't work out, they blame God and turn away. When our lives resemble the world in going after worldly possessions rather than having a life that can withstand the things that Job, the Apostles, and countless other Christians who have been martyred, lived in poverty, and in sickness have done, we've missed the boat, big time.

   We were told we would suffer just as Jesus did, and more. And in doing so, we find that we were not promised everyone should like us….

1^st John 3:13

Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.

   Rejoice just as the Disciples did…..

Acts 5:41

And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

   As James tells us…..

James 1:2-4

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

    There's no contradiction. In fact, it brings up a question to you, the reader. The Jesus of the Bible was and is hated by this world…not because He did anything to deserve it, but because He brought Light & Truth, He is Light & Truth. He was beaten, scorned, rejected, hated, and more. The Apostles and early church are on record in the Bible as well for their sufferings and the world not liking them. We are told to be the salt of the earth and a light to the world. We are to imitate Christ and boldly proclaim His name. In doing so, the hatred of this world will come down on us because the prince of this world is Satan. If you are liked by everyone, don't stand on the Bible as your final authority, turn your head at false doctrine/preaching, think we all have to get along and unite regardless of faith, and don't boldly profess the Gospel message……. What Jesus do you follow?