Job 1:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Recognize that wealth is bestowed by God, rather than acquired through wrongdoing. You have protected, you have blessed, and you have accomplished many things. What tremendous effort did Job exert to convince others that prosperity does not stem from injustice? Observe how the devil, perhaps unwittingly, confirmed this truth! The devil bore witness to this, unaware that by doing so, he extolled Job's wealth, which was not amassed through commerce or the exploitation of others, but through the grace of God. Job experienced the pinnacle of divine protection, a blessing reserved for the virtuous, thus inadvertently honoring and crowning it.

The psalmist addresses God directly, indicating that the wealthy often express gratitude only in times of joy, neglecting thankfulness during trials. The adversary likewise challenges Job, claiming that Job does not truly revere the Lord but merely enjoys the rewards of his righteousness, such as wealth and possessions. To demonstrate Job's true character, God stripped him of all he owned, revealing the depth of his gratitude towards God amidst adversity.

Following are the profound insights: For his soul shall be blessed in his lifetime; it shall praise thee when thou art good unto him (Ps. 48:19). This implies that those who lack understanding may commend him with temporal gifts, focusing solely on the present rather than the eternal. Those in low positions may offer him praise, and he may find joy if he acquires any desired possessions. He acknowledges God's greatness when favorable circumstances arise. However, during times of trial, he may utter curses with unholy words. The Psalmist expresses this because a worldly person shows no gratitude amid hardship and suffering; conversely, the righteous endure constraints and still bless God, filled with heartfelt gratitude.

Because Satan could not refute Job's goodness and devotion, he instead questions the sincerity of his noble actions and attempts to instill doubts about Job's motivations, suggesting that Job worships God out of a desire for personal gain and to receive earthly rewards.

In the land of Absitidia (Heb. Utz), there resided a man named Job, renowned for both his devoutness and the abundant prosperity of his household. Unexpectedly, he faced dreadful calamities. This dramatic shift in Job's circumstances was allowed by God as a result of Satan's challenge, who, during the assembly of heavenly beings before God, sought to tarnish Job's righteousness, asserting that he would not remain steadfast in his faith if subjected to intense trials. Initially, raiders and a fiery downpour stripped Job of his livestock and servants; subsequently, his children perished beneath the rubble of a fallen house. Yet, Job endured these tragedies without a murmur and chose only to bless the Lord. Along with the benevolent angels, the accuser, Satan, presented himself before God.

The adversary, while acknowledging the integrity and devotion of Job, attempts to cast doubt before God regarding the sincerity of his virtuous intentions. He contends that Job reveres God not out of genuine love or selflessness, but rather because of the blessings he receives, fearing the loss of divine favor and wishing to gain additional rewards. The devil argues, how could Job fail to honor You, considering You have placed a protective hedge around him? The implication here is that God has safeguarded Job from any harm that could affect his wellbeing and possessions, both inside and outside his home, creating a powerful barrier akin to a fortified stronghold. Job's agricultural pursuits, financial endeavors, and livestock thrive under the abundance of God's grace and protection.