Man vs. Temptation: A Men's DevotionalSample

When Job was Tempted

Job experienced a day that must be considered one of the worst in human history.

He lost his donkeys to the Sabeans, his sheep to lightning, his camels to the Chaldeans, and tragically, his ten children to a fierce wind.

In such overwhelming grief, Job did not hide his sorrow; he tore his robe, shaved his head, and fell to the ground to worship God.

How many of us would not be tempted to blame God in such a situation?

Job had lost his possessions and children, yet he still responded correctly by acknowledging God’s authority over everything he had. He proclaimed, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:20-21 ESV).

Satan believed Job would remain faithful to God if he were in good health. To challenge this belief, Satan struck Job with painful sores all over his body.

At this devastating low point, while Job was sitting in ashes, his wife suggested that he should abandon his integrity, curse God, and die.

It's hard to understand how anyone could recover from such a calamity. The temptation to listen to her must have been great.

We must recognize that believers can suffer more than unbelievers because they pose a threat to Satan and become his primary targets. Many believers mistakenly think that faith in God grants them immunity from harm; when difficulties arise, they question God's goodness and compassion.

However, this was not the case with Job.

So, how did Job resist the temptation to turn his back on God amid his suffering?

Job understood the importance of trusting in God. While God may allow suffering, He is never unaware of our troubles and is always compassionate. Job endured these trials and demonstrated that men can love God for who He is, rather than for His blessings of wealth, good health, and even our loved ones.

Men must be prepared for Satan’s attacks, and when we suffer, we should not think that God has abandoned us. He did not abandon Job. Keep the faith!

Prayer: Father, thank You for being present in our suffering and blessings. You are a compassionate God who will never forsake us. Give us the courage to stay strong despite our circumstances. Amen.

Reflection: Have you ever had a moment in your life when you felt as though God had abandoned you? What circumstances made you feel this way, and what experiences or realizations ultimately helped your faith?