“Are you still holding on to your principles? Curse God and die!”—Job 2:9, GOD’S WORD
Mrs. Job was married to a world leader who must, in his day, have had the combined wealth of Aristotle Onassis, Bill Gates, and Donald Trump. Mr. Job was a good man who was faithful in marriage, provided for his family, and conducted his business dealings honestly.
I can only imagine, therefore, Mrs. Job’s devastation and frustration with all the calamities that befell her husband, her children, and the family’s wealth (see Job 1; 2).
Women are designed to be fixers, helpmates, and caregivers. When Mrs. Job was unable to do any of this, it must have been devastating to her. She had no choice but to bear the disasters that befell her family. Apparently, the final straw was seeing her husband trying to clean the oozing, itching boils all over his body. Her only words recorded in the Bible asked a question and made a statement: “Are you still holding on to your principles? Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9, GOD'S WORD). She may have been so moved by her love for Mr. Job that she wanted his acute suffering to end.
I find it notable that Mrs. Job herself did not curse God herself but only suggested that Mr. Job do so. But Mr. Job did not. What an amazing story of Job’s faithfulness to God, even though he didn’t understand why this was happening. Furthermore, through his faithfulness, his wife was also saved and went on to enjoy the increase God later gave them both, which included ten more children and more wealth than ever before.
The Job family’s tragedy must have been the talk of the community where they lived. After all, their “good friends” had come during the troubles to commiserate with Mr. Job and point out to him what they thought he might have done to deserve divine punishment. Most of the conversations in the book of Job involve his talking either to God or with his so-called friends. Now all can see that family’s restoration. Their story is a witness to many.
What is your story telling the world? Even though you may not understand God’s plan for your life, do you trust Him with your life and your future? Do you believe that He will work all things together for your best good (see Romans 8:28)?
Yes, we now see through a glass darkly, but one day God will make all things clear (1 Corinthians 13:12)!
Peggy Curtice Harris
First published in In His Presence (Nampa, ID: Pacific Press), 2018.
Carolyn R. Sutton, editor
