A look at what I learned while reading Job. You've probably seen be referencing Job in a slew of other posts, so you can guess what the lessons are from this book. The four main takeaways are: (i) even the righteous may suffer; (ii) only God can define justice; (iii) when your friend is suffering, you should stay by their side; and (iv) God will not like it if you spread false doctrine.

Sometimes all it takes is hearing God's voice to see the error of our ways. God knows exactly what to say to us, all we have to do is choose to believe Him. When Job realizes how small and insignificant he is, that's when God blesses Him with all he could want. Oh...and let's talk about this sea monster, Leviathan.

In Job 38-40, Job gets his wish. God speaks to Job and gives Job the chance to speak. Of course, when the Almighty asks Job what he has to say, Job is suddenly very aware of his boldness to think he could accuse God of treating him unfairly.

Chapter 32 introduces us to the one person who seems to understand what's happening with Job's life. The following chapters lead up to the resolution of Job's crisis.

Chapters 28-31 cover Job's final word to his friends about his predicament. In these chapters, Job discusses the power and riches God had given him and the importance of wisdom.

During the third cycle of responses, only Eliphaz and Bildad speak. Once again Job responds to their criticism and we see that they do not have an answer for him. One thing that stands out is the discussion on helping the poor. The accusation that Job has not aided the less fortunate, while false, is a reminder than many of laws given in Exodus and Leviticus were in effect well before the Exodus.

Job 15-21 contains the second cycle of dialogue between Job and his friends. Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar take turns speaking, and Job response to each friend's accusation. Remember, their theology is rooted in the belief that evil only befalls on those who have rebelled against God.

Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar give their initial take on Job's situation. As you choose your friends, this is the scene you should remember. Will these people sit in ashes with me? Is their relationship with God intact? Can I trust their advice?